Messi makes two assists while Suárez extends lead at the top of the scoring charts
FC Barcelona’s win over Real Betis on Saturday moves them a step closer to the league title. Goals from Rakitic and Suárez in the second half at the Benito Villamarín calmed the nerves of the Barça faithful, who maintain their lead at the top of the division with just two games remaining.
The Croatian’s opener just after the restart was his seventh in La Liga and his ninth in all competitions. Rakitic has proven key away from home this season, opening the scoring at Rayo, Villarreal and BATE Borisov.
Suárez’s spree continued with his ninth goal in the last three matches which puts him four goals clear, both in the league scoring charts and in the race for the European Golden Shoe.
The Uruguayan’s goal also pushes the combined tally of the front three to 123, surpassing last season’s total.
Barça have now kept a clean sheet in each of their last three league games, and have scored 16 goals in the process.
The defence put in yet another solid display, highlighted by the fact that Piqué, Busquets, Mascherano and Jordi Alba managed to recuperate possession 40 times.
Despite not getting on the scoresheet himself, Leo Messi played his part with two assists. The Argentine is league’s leading provider of goals, along with teammate Suárez, with 15.
The win preserves Barça’s lead at the top of the table with just two games remaining. If Luis Enrique’s side win both, they will be confirmed champions.
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| WEEK 37 | FCB – Espanyol | Levante – Atletico | Madrid – Valencia |
| WEEK 38 | Granada – FCB | Atletico – Celta | Deportivo – Madrid |
