Villarreal vs. Barcelona: Goals, Highlights from the 2015/16 La Liga Match

Barcelona travelled to Villarreal on Sunday knowing victory would allow them to extend their lead at the top of La Liga.

Luis Enrique's men could take a major step toward retaining the league title following Atletico Madrid's loss to Sporting Gijon on Saturday and open up an 11-point gap at the top with eight games to go.

Ivan Rakitic set them on their way with a goal midway through the first half.

"

GOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL DO BARCELONA. ⚽ RAKITIC. VILLARREAL 0 X 1 BARCELONA

Siga: @InfoSportsBR pic.twitter.com/YnlOHWXbUK

— Siga: @InfoSportsBR (@InfoSportsVine) March 20, 2016"

Barcelona had the chance to double the lead when Sergio Asenjo was penalised for bringing down Neymar in the penalty area, a decision which was more than a little harsh on the goalkeeper.

The Brazilian composed himself to score from the spot:

Cedric Bakambu pulled one back early in the second half:

"

GOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL DO VILLARREAL. ⚽ BAKAMBU. VILLARREAL 1 X 2 BARCELONA

Siga: @InfoSportsBR pic.twitter.com/bSGhsFMMxM

— Siga: @InfoSportsBR (@InfoSportsVine) March 20, 2016"

And not long after, Villarreal were level thanks to an own goal by Jeremy Mathieu.

"

GOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL DO VILLARREAL. MATHIEU (CONTRA) VILLARREAL 2 X 2 BARCELONA

Siga: @InfoSportsBR pic.twitter.com/QFCGpxtUd6

— Siga: @InfoSportsBR (@InfoSportsVine) March 20, 2016"

And while the hosts couldn't find a winner, they hung on to record a point which moves them six points clear of Sevilla in fourth place.

Barcelona, meanwhile, lead the league by nine points with eight games to go, their unbeaten run intact.

[Twitter]