LaLiga 2018/19, Barcelona 3-1 Leganes: 5 Talking Points

Barcelona extended their lead at the top of the table with a 3-1 win over Leganes at the Camp Nou.

Atletico Madrid won their game against Huesca on Saturday, which cut Barca's lead at the top to two points. But the Catalans responded. Ousmane Dembele opened the scoring for them when he was cool enough to finish from Jordi Alba's low cross.

Martin Braithwaite made it 1-1 against the run of play in the second half, finishing from close range.

This was not in the script, and Barcelona took time to respond. But respond they did, and Luis Suarez restored their lead.

It was a controversial goal, and he looked to have fouled the goalkeeper when he went for the rebound. But the goal was given, and Barcelona had their lead back.

Lionel Messi wrapped up the game late on, combining with Alba to fire a right-footed shot into the roof of the net. Another game, another three points.

This was their seventh straight LaLiga victory. Barcelona extended their lead to five points, and Leganes dropped to 14th place.

It was a happening game, and Barcelona were scared for some time, but they got there in the end. Here are the major talking points from the game.

Also See : Durand Cup, Durand Cup Schedule, Calcutta Football League

#5 Lionel Messi makes the difference off the bench

Barcelona were shocked by Leganes' equaliser, which came out of nowhere. Then Dembele, their best player so far, went off injured. They were in a pickle, but Lionel Messi came to the rescue, yet again.

He was rested with the midweek clash against Sevilla in mind, but he was not on the bench for long.

When on the pitch, the Argentine made an instant impact. Ivan Cuellar could only parry his powerful shot, and Luis Suarez pounced on the rebound to restore Barca's lead. Then Messi combined with Jordi Alba to wrap up the game in the dying minutes.

Messi and Suarez have scored 33 goals together in the league, which is more than any other team's total. Yeah, that has happened. Messi's introduction sparked both of them today, which ultimately gave the three points to Barcelona.