League leaders Barcelona have extended their lead at the top of the Spanish La Liga to nine points after a straightforward 3-0 win over struggling Levante at the Nou Camp.
Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez were on target to give Barcelona a 2-0 halftime lead before Brazilian international Paulinho wrapped up the emphatic victory with a third goal.
Rivals Real Madrid lost further grounds in the title race after a late Maxi Gomez equaliser for Celta Vigo secured a 2-2 draw for the home side.
Danish international Daniel Wass gave the hosts a 32nd minute opener before quickfire goals from Bale in two first half minutes gave the champions a 2-1 lead at halftime.
Iago Aspas missed a wonderful chance to level scores for his side from the penalty spot before Gomez’s late intervention secured a point for Celta Vigo.
Week 19 Results
Leganes 1-0 Real Sociedad
Athletic Bilbao 2-0 Alaves
Villareal 1-1 Deportivo
Barcelona 3-0 Levante
Celta Vigo 2-2 Real Madrid
Standings (Top 4 via Points)
1. Barcelona 48
2. Atletico Madrid 39
3. Valencia 37
4. Real Madrid 32
