Barcelona maintains hold on first place
Second-half goals from Andres Iniesta and Samuel Eto'o gave Barcelona a crucial 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Real Sociedad on Saturday evening.
The Catalans made hard work of the first half, but took control of the game after the break and moved provisionally clear at the top of the Primera Liga by four points from Sevilla, who play at Real Madrid on Sunday.
The victory keeps Frank Rijkaard's side at the top of the league for another week, regardless of what happens in Sunday's clash between title rivals Real Madrid and Sevilla.
Meanwhile, Real Sociedad remain in deep trouble in 19th place with just five games remaining.
Valencia ensured they remained in touch with the league's leading three with an edgy 2-1 victory over a stuttering Deportivo La Coruna.
Hugo Viana opened the scoring for the visitors in the 39th minute with a superb volley, while David Silva grabbed the winner after Sebastian Taborda had pulled Deportivo level.
The win leaves Quique Sanchez Flores' side in fourth place, just one point behind Real Madrid.