Samuel Chukwueze scored but it was not enough as 10-man Villarreal lost 2-1 at home to Barcelona, reports.
It was Chukwueze’s fourth goal in 27 games in Laliga so far this season.
He broke the deadlock in the 26th minute following an assist from Pau Torres.
Just two minutes after Chukwueze’s goal Barcelona equalised through Antoine Griezmann.
And in the 35th minute Griezmann netted what proved to be the winner for Barcelona.
Villarreal were reduced to 10 men after Manu Tigueros was shown a straight red card for a late tackle on Lionel Messi.
Villarreal are now winless in their last 24 league meetings against Barcelona (Draw six defeats 18), their worst run ever against a single opponent in the top-flight.
The win means Barca in third place, are now on 71 points same as Real Madrid and just two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid while Villarreal are seventh.
By James Agberebi
