Barca’s five pivotal matches

October 1

3-0 Barcelona Las Palmas Already four points ahead of Atletico Madrid, Barcelona hosted Las Palmas on a day when political tensions were at their highest following an illegal independence referendum in Catalonia. Barca staged the fixture behind closed doors as a 3-0 win maintained the leadership, while striking an early chord for team unity.

October 14

1-1

Atletico Madrid Barcelona

On a strong winning run after seven victories in seven, Barca drew away to Atletico Madrid. Luis Suarez equalised in the 82nd minute to avoid defeat, and a potentially momentum-swinging win for Diego Simeone's men.

December 23

0-3

Real Madrid Barcelona Heading into Christmas, Barca visited Real for the first 'clasico' of the season, with the hosts desperate to kickstart their stuttering campaign. Instead, Barca inflicted a knock-out blow.

February 4

1-1 Espanyol Barcelona

After suffering their first defeat of the season against Espanyol in the Copa del Rey, Barca returned to face their local rivals in the league. Gerard Moreno put the home side in front only for a late header from Gerard Pique to secure a draw.

March 4

1-0

Barcelona Atletico Unexpected slips from Barca against Getafe and Las Palmas had given hope to Atletico, who arrived on the back of an eight-match winning run. But Barca moved 11 points clear as a bending Messi free-kick took the wind out of Atletico's sails.