Barca make light of Messi absence with romp

The victory, with Fabregas netting a hat-trick and Alexis scoring twice, restored Barca's 13-point advantage over Real Madrid at the top after their arch rivals had thumped Levante 5-1 in the earlier kick-off.

It was a timely confidence boost for Barca ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, second leg against Paris Saint-Germain and included the emotional return of defender Eric Abidal a year after he underwent a liver transplant.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1