Barcelona returned to the top of La Liga with a 3-0 victory over Levante, capitalising on Real Madrid’s earlier defeat.

HANSI FLICK’s side moved a point clear of Real Madrid at the summit after a comfortable 3-0 victory over struggling Levante at Camp Nou.

The win provided a vital response following a difficult week that included a 4-0 Copa del Rey thrashing by Atletico Madrid and a 2-1 league defeat to Girona.

“It was a really bad moment for us but in the end today we gave a good response,” Flick told reporters.

Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong gave Barcelona a commanding first-half lead against the team in 19th place.

Bernal opened the scoring after good work from Joao Cancelo and Eric Garcia, marking his second goal since returning from a year-long knee injury.

“I thought of my father (in my celebration) and my physio — he told me I would score and he has helped me a lot in this process,” Bernal told Movistar.

De Jong doubled the advantage before the break, finishing from another dangerous Cancelo delivery from the left flank.

Flick praised the Portuguese defender’s impact in a rare start since his January loan arrival.

“Joao today he showed his strength, his positive things, he gave us a lot of moments, great chances, for me it was a really good game from him and this is what I want to see,” said Flick.

Substitute Fermin Lopez wrapped up the victory late on with a spectacular long-range drive that crashed in off the post.

Flick was also able to welcome midfielder Pedri back as a substitute after a month out with a hamstring injury.

Despite the clean sheet, Barcelona’s defence remained open at times, though Levante’s poor finishing prevented them from capitalising.

Levante midfielder Carlos Alvarez rued his team’s missed opportunities in the first half.

“In the first half we had some chances that, if we put them away, could have got them to doubt themselves,” he said.

The defeat leaves Levante seven points from safety in the relegation battle.

Flick emphasised that the title race remains wide open despite returning to the top.

“It’s important now to be on top of the table but in the end there’s a long way to go.”

In Sunday’s other early match, Sevilla earned a 1-0 win at Getafe.

 The Sun Malaysia