Robert Lewandowski scored twice in three second-half minutes to set Barcelona on their way to a 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in El Clasico.
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha also scored to add further misery onto Madrid who were left open at the back as they pushed for a way back into the tie.
Los Blancos came into El Classico with a streak of 42 La Liga games unbeaten and just one away from Barcelona’s own record.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side could have been ahead before the break but Kylian Mbappe found himself offside six times and had a goal chalked off.
The experience of 36-year-old Lewandowski told in the second half as he beat the offside trap to break the deadlock and then netted a looping header three minutes later.
Lewandowski should have settled the tie but missed two guilt-edge chances giving Madrid hope of a fightback.
However, Los Blancos was cut open twice more with Yamal and Raphinha taking advantage to record a memorable win.
The result means that Barcelona are now six points clear at the summit of La Liga.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick provided a tactical masterclass as his side ruthlessly ended their rivals unbeaten streak.
The high and tight defensive line held by the visitors resulted in Mbappe becoming frustrated in the first half and continuously running offside.
Madrid were caught offside 12 times in the game and when they did break through goalkeeper Inaki Pena was equal to their efforts.
On the counter-attack, Barcelona were ruthless in the second half with Lewandowski timing his run for the opener perfectly.
Lewandowski’s quick second was the perfect moment for the visitors who then picked off their frustrated hosts on the break.
source: graphic.com.gh
