Legendary penalty stopper Diego Alves made yet again a crucial save from 12 yards out, to keep Valencia on top in the biggest game of Match Round 20. Valencia – who were leading 2-0 at some point – were at risk of being pegged-back after Sevilla got a second penalty in less than five minutes, but the Brazilian stepped-up big a second time to keep Los Che in the lead and ahead of their Andalusian rivals. Valencia went on to win 3-1 to leapfrog Sevilla on La Liga table.
In defence, Barcelona’s Gerard Pique was in his best form, scoring a goal as well as helping the Blaugrana keep a clean sheet in a 6-0 win away at Elche. The Spanish international oozed class and composure, making sure Luis Enrique’s side were hardly at risk all game long. Despite playing as a midfielder for Athletic in their 1-1 draw against Malaga at San Mames, Mikel San Jose makes the cut in defence this week.
The big versatile man scored the only goal for Ernesto Valverde’s side, and was solid defensively, weighing in with key tackles. In same game, Marcos Angeleri played a huge role defensively for the visitors Malaga. The Argentine made more tackles than any other player in the game and delivered a defensive masterpiece.
In midfield, star of Monday night’s game Pablo Sarabia makes the cut. The former Real Madrid youth player had a hand in both Getafe goals (scoring one and assisting another) as The Deep Blues jumped four points clear of the relegation zone. La Real captain Xabi Prieto scored the only goal for David Moyes’ men in their 1-0 win at Anoeta against a solid Eibar side. Xabi Prieto imposed himself on the game, and was a constant goal threat for the Basque side. From one captain to another, Dani Parejo was in unstoppable form in Valencia’s 3-1 win over Sevilla at the Mestalla. The former Real Madrid man scored a penalty, and then placed in another to put Los Che 2-0 up.
Finally in midfield is Espanyol utility man Christian Stuani. The 28-year-old Uruguayan international scored the Catalans first two goals of the game, after being denied by the wordwork earlier in the game.
Two goal heroes, Lionel Messi and Neymar lead the forward line. Both Barcelona players played a key role in dismantling Elche 6-0. Lionel Messi was unarguably the Man of the Match, scoring two and assisting another two while Neymar bagged a brace and delivered an assist too. It brought to the forefront for the umpteenth the beautiful partnership and understanding between both South Americans.
Finally on this round’s team is Atletico Madrid’s Frenchman Antoine Griezmann who got a brace in the champions’ 3-1 win at home against neighbours Rayo Vallecano. The former Real Sociedad forward was simply unplayable and was only denied a hattrick by the wood work.
