Lionel Messi continues to break records and set new standards, this time coming on as a substitute against Deportivo on Saturday to score in his 17th consecutive La Liga game to pass Pole Teodor Pewterek’s 1937-38 world record of scoring in 16 straight games for Ruch Chorzow.
Alexis Sanchez gave Barcelona the lead just before half-time as the Catalans cruised to a straightforward 2-0 victory, at ñleast temporarily increasing their lead over second placed Atlético Madrid to fourteen points.
Málaga hold on to fourth place with a 1-1 draw at Valladolid, although Valencia could overtake them by the end of Sunday. Demichelis put the Blue and Whites in front after just 8 minutes, but Manucho headed an equaliser just before half-time.
Struggling Mallorca came from a goal down to beat Sevilla 2-1, Alfaro grabbing a brace for the Islanders, Negredo replying for the Andalucians.