Barcelona opened put down a marker at the top of La Liga with a 3-0 win over Villarreal, as Real Madrid prepare to face Sevilla later this evening.

However, Luis Enrique’s side didn’t have it all their own way against Marcelino’s side, with Neymar’s opener only coming after 60 minutes. It didn’t take long for Luis Suarez to add a second after that though, as Villarreal ran out of steam.

Neymar provided the highlight of the match with just less than five minutes left to play, flicking the ball over the head of a Villarreal defender before finishing on the full volley in what was a moment of sheer Brazilian brilliance.

Perhaps the most pleasing aspect of Barcelona’s performance for Enrique was their defensive solidity, with the Catalans struggling to keep clean sheets this season. They never looked like conceding on this occasion, though.

"We played well and created a lot of chances. We need to continue this way. I am happy with the way I am playing but I think I can still do better," Neymar told reporters.

Barca lead the table with 27 points from 11 games, three more than Real. Fourth-placed Atletico Madrid, on 20 points, were playing Sporting Gijon later on Sunday.

-

Follow Joy Sports on Twitter: @Joy997FM. Our hashtag is #JoySports