After losing the El Clasico, Barcelona defeated Villarreal 3-0 at Camp Nou thanks to two incredible goals from Robert Lewandowski.
Barca suffered their first loss to archrivals Real Madrid this season on Sunday, but they recovered quickly as Villarreal were easily defeated on Thursday.
The Yellow Submarine was completely outclassed by three goals in a seven-minute span early in the first half. Lewandowski scored two outstanding goals before Ansu Fati made sure the game was effectively over before halftime.
Villarreal never made a comeback attempt as Xavi's team relieved the pressure that had begun to mount following a stretch of just one victory in four games. With 31 minutes remaining after a stressful first half hour, a stroke of luck resulted in the opening goal.
Jordi Alba was freed free by Pedri's brilliant ball, and his subsequent low cross found Lewandowski, whose backheeled first touch eliminated three Villarreal players and set up an easy finish. A short while later, Lewandowski scored from a greater distance, curving his 25-yard attempt over Geronimo Rulli's head.
But Fati's objective contained a little more good fortune. Fati should have tapped in following an excellent run and cut-back by Ferran Torres, but his errant attempt rebounded against the post and allowed him to backheel over the line.
In a dull second half, opportunities mainly dried up, but Raphinha missed an opportunity to make it 4-0 by deflecting an Ousmane Dembele cross over from close range. The Brazilian's missed opportunity was ultimately meaningless, though, as Barca easily finished the second half.
WHY DOES THAT MATTER? - THE STATUS QUO FOR BARCELONA
For Xavi and Barcelona, October has been a sobering month as they managed just one point from two Champions League matches against Inter before losing the Clasico 3-1.
Even Xavi's future came up at that period, with the coach admitting that if the Blaugrana do not succeed, he won't be in charge for very long. They defeated Villarreal easily, which is impressive considering Unai Emery's team had only given up three goals in their previous seven games in all competitions.
ASSASSIN LEWANDOWSKI
Three shots, three shots on goal, and two goals is a rather effective shooting ratio. Lewandowski probably doesn't fit that description, though. The Poland striker's first-half brace was incredible and brilliantly displayed his variety of skills.
UNKNOWN DANJUMA
Villarreal would probably have required their forwards to be active if they wanted to leave Camp Nou with a victory.
However, the attackers of the Yellow Submarine fought all the way through. Before being replaced before halftime, Arnaut Danjuma only had time for one shot and 12 touches.
NEXT CHALLENGE.
On Sunday, Villarreal host Almeria, and Barcelona welcome back Ernesto Valverde, who is once again in charge of Athletic Bilbao.
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