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Robert Lewandowski scored on his return from a three-match ban to help send Barcelona eight points clear of Real Madrid having played a game more.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side can close the gap against managerless Valencia on Thursday but this 2-1 win was another impressive result for Barcelona who were left hanging on at the end after a Jules Kounde own goal reduced the margin following Lewandowski’s 14th goal in 16 league games and the impressive Raphinha’s opener.

The first half had been fast-paced with both sides coming close to breaking the deadlock. Luis Henrique went close with a shot. And Jules Kounde blocked a Sergio Canales shot after a brilliant pass from Nabil Fekir had sent Aitor Ruibal through.

For Barcelona Robert Lewandowski was back from his three-match ban and headed Raphinha’s cross just wide. Pedri tried to trick his way around Rui Silva when put through by Raphinha’s clever pass but the keeper smothered the ball. And Raphinha then headed in Frenkie de Jong’s cross but was flagged offside.

Pedri came into the game having scored in Barcelona’s last two home games and he was lively after the break too with a shot through a crowded area that Rui Silva saved well. Fekir tested Marc Andre ter Stegen at the other end.