Madrid - Barcelona are now nine points clear at the top of the Spanish Liga after a 2-0 home win over lowly Recreativo Huelva on Saturday. Barca now have 75 points from 30 games, nine points more than second-placed Real Madrid, who are at home to midtable Valladolid on Sunday.

The Catalans have won their last five league games, without conceding a single goal.

Star of the show in the Camp Nou was little Andres Iniesta, who scored the first Barca goal and provoked the second one, an own goal from Huelva defender Nasief Morris.

Barca coach gave a well-earned rest to Carles Puyol, Xavi and Samuel Eto'o, but his team still looked tired and short of ideas.

And this despite going ahead in the very first minute, when Thierry Henry centred from the left for Iniesta to make it 1-0.

Barca then lost their rhythym and Huelva - who are third from bottom - came forward, albeit without penetration.

Henry had a "goal" disallowed for offside in the 65th minute. Three minutes later it was 2-0, after Morris had clumsily turned an Iniesta centre into his won goal.

Lionel Messi, looking weary and uninspired, had a late penalty saved by Huelva keeper Asier Riesgo, after handball by Jose Casado.

Later on Saturday, fourth-placed Villarreal - perhaps tired after their exertions against Arsenal - are at home to Malaga, who are seventh.(dpa)