Barcelona steamrolled back into the La Liga lead as 6-0 winners over Sporting Gijon at the Camp Nou. Four goals from Luis Suarez, one from Lionel Messi and Neymar took the Catalans back to the top of the table leaving title rivals Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid only three games to try and steal the title away from Luis Enrique's men.
Here's how the who's who of the football world reacted to Barcelona winning their game.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, was optimistic yet critical of the way his side started the game.
“In the first half we lacked speed, we were well-positioned and football at the top level you have to have speed,” he said. “They had a pair of chances to draw level.”“The second half was different, we had better opportunities and we put the game away. For us it's vital to score a lot of goals,” he added.When asked for an overview, the manager said: “I'll stick with the positive things. We have one home game left and two away, surely it will be tough on the road but we’ll take advantage of a long week to prepare for the game against Betis.”
Four-goal hero Luis Suarez was in a bullish mood after the game.
"Team let's just three dates! To continue working for it. Forca Barca!"
Centre-back Gerard Pique welcomed the win and even defended teammate Neymar who has been criticised off late.
It's very difficult for Barça to win without playing well, and we weren't smooth in the first half.”
“In the second half we started to play our game and we were able to put them back on their heels, and the goals came.
“We are Barça and we know that we have a unique opportunity to win the league. If we take all nine points left in play, we will be the champions.”
“Neymar is very important to the team and we have to support him the way he deserves because he has given us a lot.”
“The referee’s decisions at the end of the game did not have any influence on the result.”
Midfielder Ivan Rakitic was buoyed by Suarez's performance.
"URUGUAYAN! 8 goals in two games! Big team! Uruguayan @LuisSuarez9! 8 goals in 2 games! Great team effort!"
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