The Catalans have waited a long time to finish a gameweek as leaders

Xavi’s Barcelona lead La Liga on goal difference, and it’s the first time they have done so at the end of a game week for 833 days, June 2020. Their draw with Sevilla then handed Madrid the lead in the title race, when Barcelona were under Quique Setien. It’s been a long time since, but Barcelona are back.

Barcelona have the same points as Madrid but are ahead on goal difference, with plus 18 to Madrid’s plus 11.

Madrid could have won their game but Benzema missed a penalty late on. Barcelona’s challenge is to stay where they are and the Clasico on October 16 will be big.