Champions League: Arsenal 2 - 2 Barcelona

Never will have an away draw in the Champions League tasted so bitter. The first half of this match was men against boys. Barcelona battered Arsenals goal, and only a mixture of Manuel Almunia, goal line clearances and poor finishing stopped Barca going in at the break 4 or 5 to the good. Xavi and Sergio Busquets were sublime in the centre, pulling Arsenal from side to side in search of the killer pass. And when they weren't in possesion, the intensity with which they harried Arsenals players off the ball was immense. It was a shame Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic weren't as astute infront of goal. At one point it was a seige as Barca had about four clear chances to open the scoring in 30 seconds, only to see every shot repelled by Almunia and his defence. Pep Guardiola said he's never seen his team play so well. They were simply irresistable.

Strangely, Barca lost a bit of their va va voom after the break, yet they found themselves two up after only 15 minutes. Two brilliantly taken goals from Ibrahimovic. His first was a sublime finish, although Almunias rush of blood to the head more than helped him out. The second was pure power after a Xavi pass had set him free. At this stage it looked like Barca were home and dry, but the introduction of Theo Walcott galvanised the gunners. The young winger collected Bendtners cute pass to fire past Valdes after 70 minutes. Then with only 5 minutes left, the tie was turned on its head by a Carlos Puyol challenge on Cesc Fabregas in the box. It appeared at first as a harmless tangling of legs but the ref gave the penalty and sent Puyol off. On closer inspection the ref was spot on. Cesc aggravated his old injury whilst slamming in the penalty, but misses the second leg regardless after earning a yellow card for a late challenge on Busquets. Gerard Pique and Puyol also miss out at the Camp Nou through suspension. The quarter final looked done and dusted for Barca, but they now have work to do next week. Still, they have to be overwhelming favourites to go through.

Frank Ribery: Wing Wizard or Le Sulk?

Working within his new capacity as ambassador of Real Madrid, Zinedine Zidane has been thrust into the spotlight as the clubs new spokeperson when it comes to tapping up players. Todays topic was his fellow countryman, Frank Ribery, who Zizou believes would be a cast-iron success at the Bernabeu. Let there be no doubt the guy has talent. By the bucketload. But whilst some were proclaming his world-class performance against Manchester United last night, I was left wondering why Real Madrid and Barcelona, among others, were so keen on shelling out around €50 million to secure his signature. Ok, he scored a heavily deflected free-kick, and skinned the youthful Gary Neville a couple times, but he didn't do anything that made me believe he would offer Real Madrid or Barcelona something they don't already have.

Guilty of some serious Nicola Anelka-esque sulks, he has even been overshadowed this term by Real Madrid reject, the 'Glassman' himself, Arjen Robben. If I were Florentino Perez, I'd take a break from the dangerous game of forking out huge amounts on foreign talent (for every Ronaldo there'll be a Kaka, and for every Higuain there'll be a Benzema), and focus on recruiting young Spanish creativity, in the form of David Silva and Jesus Navas. Or even give some youth from Castilla a chance. That's if indeed he believes it necessary to bolster the front line; a front line let's remember that is on course to break the 107 goal mark set by John Toshacks side in 1989/1990.

Real Madrid fight back to take the derby honours against Atletico

Real Madrid 3 - 2 Atletico Madrid
(0-1) 10' Reyes, (1-1) 49' Alonso, (2-1) 55' Arbeloa, (3-1) 62' Higuaín, (3-2) 67' Forlán

Real Madrid leapfrog Barca yet again after an action-packed derby against Atletico Madrid. 'Los Rojiblancos' even managed to make it to halftime a goal to the good after Jose Antonio Reyes' confident finish past Casillas, but from that point on there was only one team in it. Atletico inexplicably retreated into their own half, and Real Madrid took control. De Gea had to be at his best to ensure Atleti started the second half in the lead, but within 17 minutes they found themselves 3-1 down as Alonso, Arbeloa and Higuain all found the net with Real Madrid threatening to run riot. Higuains goal will have especially angered Quique as farcical errors from Thiago (who had played well up to that point) and Assuncao allowed Higuain a free run on goal, and the Argentine rarely fails to find the back of the net when one on one, and tonight was no different. Diego Forlán quickly made it 3-2 after a crazy handball by Xabi Alonso was punished with a penalty (but oddly not even a yellow card), but bar a chance for Forlán with only seconds remaining, that was as close as it would get for Atletico. It's looking increasingly like El Clasico on April 10th is going to be the defining match in this seasons Liga battle.

Villarreal 3 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 4' Rossi (2-0) 17' Llorente (3-0) 90' Pires

Sevilla are slowly but surely falling out of the Champions League race as they fell to another morale-sapping defeat at the hands of Villarreal. With Jesus Navas and Diego Perotti out, Sevilla lack a plan B, with Luis Fabiano and Alvaro Negredo starved of service. Villarreal on the other hand were inspired, with Cani, Ibergaza, Rossi and Nilmar simply too much to handle for Sevillas back four. Guiseppe Rossi got the first, running onto Nilmars pass, whilst Joseba Llorente took advantage of another assist from the Brazilian to put the match out of sight for the visitors. Luis Fabiano had a couple of chances to half the deficit, but shot uncharacteristically straight at the keeper on both occasions. Late sub Robert Pires then put the icing on the cake for Juan Garridos men as he slipped the ball past the onrushing Palop to give the scoreline a more realistic reflection. As the Submarine rises towards the European spots, Sevilla see their Champions League ambitions take another blow. A team short on confidence and ideas, Antonio Alvarez has a huge job on his hands.

Xerez 3 - 0 Real Valladolid

(1-0) 1' Victor Sanchez, (2-0) 35' Michel, (3-0) 71' Bermejo (p)

This was supposed to be the last chance saloon for Xerez, as defeat to a direct rival like Real Valladolid would spell almost certain relegation. Just as well the team from Chapin are saving the best for last as they chalked up their eleventh point out of the last 18 available in their search of a footballing miracle. Few people give them a chance but try telling that to the Xerez players, as they close the gap on Real Valladolid to two points and are now only seven away from Real Zaragoza who sit just above the bottom three. Victor Sanchez set them on the road to victory with a goal after only a minute following good work from little Fabiano Orellana. Momo then sent over a superb free-kick which left Michel with the simple task of nodding past Justo Villar, as the Real Valladolid defence crumbled. If todays performance is anything to go by, Valladolid are doomed, as they hardly created a noteworthy chance in the first half, with Manucho an isolated figure upfront. The second half saw much of the same, as Xerez had various chances to extend their lead, and did so with 20 minutes left after a dubious penalty decision from controversial ref Perez Burrul. From where I was sat it looked like Mario Bermejo slipped as he rounded Justo Villar, but Burrul gave the penalty and sent the keeper off. With all their subs already used, Medjunanin went in goal, only to pick the ball straight out of the net as Bermejo made no mistake from the spot. Chapin then went into party mode. The great escape is still very much alive.

Deportivo la Coruña 1 - 3 Getafe

(0-1) 21' Miku, (0-2) 32' Ze Castro, (0-3) 57' Miku, (1-3) 71' Riki

Osasuna 1 - 0 Almeria

(1-0) 20' Pandiani

Espanyol 0 - 0 Sporting Gijon

Ibrahimovic to the rescue as Barca struggle to see off Mallorca (Highlights)

Mallorca 0 - 1 Barcelona
(0-1) 62' Ibrahimovic

Saved by the post and a couple of superb saves from Victor Valdes, Barcelona limped out of the ONO Estadi with three crucial points in their battle with Real Madrid. Aritz Aduriz and Borja Valero both saw effortscrash off Valdes' right post as Mallorca proved exactly why their stadium is the second most difficult venue in La Liga this year. Leo Messi and Xavi both started on the bench, and without them Barca struggled to create many openings against a well-drilled Mallorcan defence. With Valero and Chori Castro in threatening mood, Valdes had to be on his toes to keep out some gilt-edged chances, none better than when he had to scramble across his goalline to keep out Castros effort. Leo Messi and Xavi were then thrown into the fray, after Andres Iniesta was forced off with a muscle problem, rendering him doubtful for the trip to Arsenal midweek. Then just when it looked like Barca were going to be sent back to the peninsula with a solitary point, Zlatan Ibrahimovic appeared once more to smash in from close range after Aouate could only parry Puyols effort from a corner. It was a true smash and grab, but Guardiola wont care as he looks to Atletico to cause a derby upset on sunday evening.

Real Zaragoza 3 - 0 Valencia

(1-0) 41' Diogo, (2-0) 63' Arizmendi, (3-0) 71' Jarosik

Real Zaragoza pulled out their best performance of the season to see off a depleted Valencia side who were without their stars David Silva and David Villa. Even so, Joaquin, Juan Mata and Pablo Hernandez showed enough attacking verve in the first half to suggest the spanish internationals wouldn't be missed. As a tightly fought first-half came to a close, two incidents changed the course of the match. First, Carlos Diogo collected a clearance from ex-Zaragoza goalie Cesar let fly with his left foot, giving the keeper no chance. Four minutes later, Valencia were down to ten after two irresponsible challenges, the second an unforgiveable lunge, lead to Nicola Zigic being shown red. Driven on by an inspired performance from youngster Ander Herrera, Zaragoza then dominated the second half, with further goals from Arizmendi, a fantastic strike from Edmilsons fine ball over the top, and a Jarosik effort from a corner. La Romareda ended the match with a round of Mexican waves as they celebrated three points which has served to open up a gap between them and the bottom three. A repeat of 2008 looks unlikely.

Malaga 1 - 1 Tenerife

(1-0) 66' Apoño, (1-1) 85' Alfaro (p)

Movies 2009 up to date !

Alright since i am so bored, and have been watching back a few old movies. Would love to list down a personal top 10 movies that you should not miss ! I will pick between movies that were out from 2009 until now. In no particular orders, here goes =)

1: The Taking Of Pelham 123

Starring : Denzel Washington & John Travolta

Denzel owns, and nothing is cooler when John Travolta plays as the villain.

2: Ice Age 3 - Dawn of The Dinosaurs

Starring : Ray Romano, Queen Latifah, Dennis Leary

What can i say about Ice Age ? My all time favourite animated movie! I love every part, super cute characters and i bet my baby fell in love with them when we watched it on our 3rd year anniversary =D HEHE! Waited 2years for this!

3: Transformers 2 - Revenge of the Fallen

Starring : Shia Lebeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese

If you have not watch this, shoot yourself in the head. If you don't like robots, at least look at Megan Fox fine ass.

4: Law Abiding Citizen

Starring : Gerard Butlet & Jamie Foxx

Title sounds boring, but it's has a great story. Makes you wonder and goes WTF, how is it possible in many scenes =) It got very good reviews by the viewers in many media websites, says a lot about the show!

5: Avatar

Starring : Sam Worthington & Zoe Saldana

This movie started production from year 2005, they started working on the language first, then developing screenplay and the rest. Finally released end of 2009, and almost immediate effect they several big awards and not to mention nominated for 9 Academy Awards, winning 3. First film to gross more than $2billion, surpassing Titanic! Incredible.

6: The Hangover

Starring : Ed Helms, Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis

Fucking hilarious. 4 friends travels to Vegas, partied, got drunk, and not remembering a thing the next day. Found a baby & tiger in the room too, haha best.

7: 2010

Starring : John Cusack, Amanda Peet, Chiwetel Ejiofor

Is it real? Will it happened? No one knows, but definitely gives you a mind fuck on what its like if it does. Scary, but lets hope the world doesn't end. PEACE PEACE :D

8: Twilight - New M...OK IM JUST FUCKING WITH U :D FUCK THAT! LoL

The Proposal

Starring : Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds

I bought this movie twice, unfortunately it's urm, not allowed to say :) Baby and i wanted to watch this show badly, but time flew so fast the last month and we ended up not watching it. But you gotta watch it! Heard it's really good, and i will be watching it soon =p already in my PC. HEHE

9: Earth

Voice : Patrick Stewart

This is a documentary not just base on animals, but also nature, and how everything you do today changes the earth. Started from the North Pole in January all the way to South in December, real fascinating. Love those polar bears and other animals that were in it <3>

Also another movie i was suppose to watch with my gf, but she was in Singapore then. Sorry hunnie :*(

10: Michael Jackson - This Is It

Starring : Michael Jackson

It's a shame people that bought tickets to his final shows only gets to watch this. I admit it was kinda boring, but what the hell, this is the last chance to see him and how he would have performed. From what i saw, it would have been a fucking brilliant show. King of entertainment, Michael Jackson!

I still remember waking my gf up @ 8am in the morning, breaking this news to her. She immediately woke and we both couldn't really believed it either.

Alright, i think that's it for me. I know there are a few movies that should be listed, but like i said its my opinion =)) So enjoy the weekend, may Scuderia Ferrari rule Melbourne in F1 this weekend. Glory glory Manchester United all the way as well =)

PS: I will not list Twilight in my top 10 eventho i have watched it and it has a huge fan base. JUST never happening.

Update on Highspeed Broadband

Hey ya'll !

High-speed broadband finally launched, last 2nights ago. The prices are decent, but there's a catch to it, like duh..

3 Packages are offered: VIP5, VIP10 and VIP20 designated by its Broadband speeds

VIP5

• 5Mbps Download/Upload
• 60GB Download Quota
• RM149/month

VIP10

• 10Mbps Download/Upload
• 90GB Download Quota
• RM199/month

VIP20

• 20Mbps Download/Upload
• 120GB Download Quota
• RM249/month

See the download quota monthly ? Yes that kinda suck, but i need to call them to check what happens after you download more than that.. Pretty sure the line will go slower, but how slow is the question. But as a selected trial customer, we have a different price, instead of RM249 monthly, we pay RM199. Super value as i was paying RM99 for 1MB line, extra 100 and i get 19MB faster too. So definitely taking up the offer =) But if we don't take that offer, we can only downgrade to 5MB which charge RM149 like normal customer. WHEEE gonna be hook to this fast internet!!

Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo to the double: Real Madrid return to the top

Getafe 2 - 4 Real Madrid
(1-0) 13' Ronaldo, (2-0) 20' Higuain, (3-0) 23' Higuain, (4-0) 37' Ronaldo, (1-4) 38' Parejo, (2-4) 80' Pedro Leon

It had been widely reported before the match that Real Madrid had a worse game to points ratio in El Coliseum than in the Camp Nou. If it had even entered the minds of Real Madrids stars, it certainly didn't show. The first half of this match was so one-sided, such an incessant wave of white movement, it was almost embarrasing to watch. Xavi Alonso was majestic in the middle, ordering his artillery ahead of him with the precision he so often demonstrated at Anfield. Shots rained down on Ustaris goal with such alarming regularity, Getafe must have felt like throwing in the towel at half time. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Higuain in this mood, you havn't got much hope.

The first goal came courtesy of yet another Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick, as he continues to consolidate his position as the deadliest player from set pieces on the planet; todays was his sixth this season. Most players have to choose between power or precision. Not Cristiano. Todays free-kick was only inches outside the box, yet he managed to curl it up over the wall and into the top corner with such force, it had flown past Ustari before he had time to react. Then Gonzalo Higuain took over with two typically Higuain goals. The Argentine is dynamite in the area. His goals just so effortless, with the striker almost strolling through the Getafe defence and past the keeper for his second. If Higuain is the silent assassin, Cristiano is a full-on missile launcher. Having bamboozled Mario with a series of stepovers, he let fly with another short, sharp swing of his right boot; the ball a blur as it shot past a shellshocked Ustari.

Getafe hit back with two goals of their own, but it was just a case of salvaging pride. Parejo took advantage of a Casillas mistake to stroke into an empty net, although many will feel the goal was unjust as Casillas lay stricken on the turf after being subject of a robust, although perfectly legitimate, challenge from the goalscorer. The match inevitably slowed down after that avalanche of goals, with Pedro Leon netting the final goal with ten minutes remaining. As the game peetered out, Pedro Mosquero was finally handed his debut. A talented midfielder who has worked his way up from the Castilla reserves, Madrid fans will hope he is the first of many youngsters to make the breakthough in the coming years. In the meantime it is the job of their Galacticos to ensure that Barca don't walk away with a second successive league title. The Clasico in three weeks promises to be electric, but  before Barca come to town they have a derby to take care of.

Atletico Madrid 2 - 0 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 54' Forlan, (2-0) 86' Agüero

Atletico Madrid returned to winning ways after their horror show in Mallorca with a vital victory against Athletic Bilbao which reignited their push for Europe. Lead by an impeccable performance from Tomas Ujfalusi, who handled big Fernando Llorente as well as any defender this season, Atletico survived a first half onslaught from the Basque side and hit them with two second half sucker punches. Diego Forlan got the first just before the hour, as he took advantage of a slide rule pass from Valera to sidefoot past  Gorka Iraizoz. The goal was his tenth against Atheltic, more than against any other side, and the celebration had more than tinge of anger, as he let out a few weeks of frustration by gesturing angrily to the crowd. 'People have a short memory' he said after the match, a clear sign that the fans complaints about his lack of form havn't gone unnoticed.

Bilbao tried to fight back, but in vain and the game was over when Sergio Agüero tricked his way into the area before firing in. Athletic will feel hard done by, with Javi Martinez and Gabilondo both putting in impressive shifts. How they needed the killer instinct of Atleticos front two. So Atletico move towards the Bernabeu in high spirits. Only five points off the UEFA spots, in the final of the Copa del Rey and in the last eight of the Europe League. Crisis? What crisis?

Check out what the lads at MadridAtleticos thought about the match HERE!

Ibrahimovic saves Barcelonas blushes against Osasuna

Barcelona 2 - 0 Osasuna

(1-0) 72' Ibrahimovic, (2-0) 88' Bojan

Underfire Zlatan Ibrahimovic strolled out of Messis shadow to rescue his team from a potentially league-threatening draw against Osasuna.  While the watching world reached for the superlative dictionary during the week, as plaudits flew in from all angles to praise his teammate, Zlatan was left to mull over his numerous gaffes in the Aragonese capital. He and his team were made to suffer today as the visitors strangled the life out of Barcelona during a physical first 45 minutes, whilst also offering hope to the rest of the world that Leo Messi can be stopped. Messi didn't have a bad match by any stretch of the imagine, yet such are the standards that he sets himself these days, anything less than a hattrick doesn't warrant any special mention.

Jose Antonio Camacho, a Real Madrid man at heart, came to the Camp Nou set on  causing an upset. His 4-3-3 formation was a welcome change to the 'park the bus' tactics that many visiting teams adopt in this neck of the woods. With Nekounam and Puñal his loyal footsoldiers in the centre, Barca struggled to find any rhythm as Osasuna didn't leave a blade of grass unturned. The best chance of the half fell to Krisztian Vadocz, but up against the one-on-one master, Victor Valdes, there was only ever going to be one winner as the Barca keeper came to his sides rescue once again. Osasunas two full-backs, Monreal and Azpilicueta caused Dani Alves and Maxwell plenty of headaches down the wings, and as the players walked off for half-time, Barcelona were surely pondering how they could break this wall of white shirts down.

Whatever Guardiola said at the break worked, as Barca came out in determined mood, with Andres Iniesta at the forefront. Even so, Osasuna were in no mood to cave in as they stuck to the tactics that had served them so well in the first half. As the minutes ticked away, it was looking increasingly desparate for the Catalans. But up popped Ibrahimovic, who was in the right place at the right time to finish off a flowing move that involved Iniesta and Maxwell, with the latter sliding a perfect pass across goal, which only required the big Swede to stick out a leg. Cue a collective sigh of relief and plenty of swearing in Madrid. Messi provided his customary moment of magic, creating an inch of space just outside the area which allowed him to curl against the post, before Iniesta turned creator to set up sub Bojan for another of his late cameo goals. It wasn't pretty but it was effective, as Barca now look to Getafe to do them a huge favour tomorrow in the Coliseum.

Valencia 1 - 0 Malaga
(1-0) 13' Villa

Tenerife 2 - 2 Villarreal

(0-1) 46' Nilmar, (1-1) 60' Nino, (2-1) 76' Culebras, (2-2) 88' Rossi

Real Valladolid 0 - 0 Espanyol

Racing Santander 0 - 0 Mallorca

Almeria 1 - 0 Real Zaragoza

(1-0) 61' Uche

Xerez stun Sevilla in the Sanchez Pizjuan: Time up for Manolo Jimenez?

Sevilla 1 - 1 Xerez
(1-0) 63' Kanoute (p), (1-1) 92' Gioda

Xerez sprung one of the surprises of the season as they scored a last minute goal to cancel out Frederic Kanoutes earlier penalty. They may well be suffering from a chronic bout of injuries, but there's no hiding the fact that Sevilla fell desparately short tonight. Without Luis Fabiano, Jesus Navas and Diego Capel they were already lacking creativity upfront, but when Diego Perotti pulled up with a muscle strain, the situacion was critical. He was closely followed by midfield warrior Dider Zokora and suddenly it looked decidely bleak for a team striving to make the final Champions League place.

Right now that looks like a big ask for a side that is completely bereft of confidence. Alvaro Negredo is struggling badly, a slight worry for Del Bosque as the World Cup looms. The back four is uncharacteristically porous. Errors are even creeping into the previously impenetrable Andrés Palop. At the other end of the spectrum, Xerez showed tremendous fighting spirit to grab a point from a ground where no-one gave them a chance. Leandro Gioda got them the equaliser at the death after a scramble in the area, but truth be told, they gave Palop a fright on more than one occasion during the match, and their continuing fight for survival is really beginning to gather pace. Carlos Calvo revolutionised his team when he came on, and don't be surprised if this nippy lad from Madrid is whisked off if and when Xerez drop down a level. Another man on the move in the near future could well be Manolo Jimenez. The fans gave him a hard time after the defeat to CSKA Moscow, so the pressure must now be at boiling point. A paltry draw at home against the leagues whipping boys will not go down well. And president Jose Maria Del Nido is not a man to pussyfoot around a tough decision.

Sporting Gijon 2 - 1 Deportivo La Coruña

(1-0) 30' Bilic, (1-1) 65' Adrian, (2-1) 94' Diego Castro (p)

Series / Movies

Top pick of the week (MOVIE):

Clash of the titans

http://clash-of-the-titans.warnerbros.com/

Just watch, it should be great. Enough said =)

Ever since i got my god like speed internet, i have been watching a lot of tv series ! Recently i also started watching "Glee" To be honest, i never thought i'm going to like it, but after watching 5/13 episodes so far, i am beginning to find it really interesting. Maybe the story line is a bit predictable but the performance and songs they re-made it sounds really good. They made it very current and not old, plus those guys can really sing! Maybe not live, but yeah they do it well in the studio lol =D

Guess what?! I reformatted my pc today! All by myself! LoL okay not all alone, i got a lot of help by my friend teaching through ebuddy on my Iphone =p So thanks alot MILIA!! I installed Windows 7, apparently its a full version of a Windows Vista. It's still all new and confusing to me, but i am liking it so far~ I have installed everything that i backed-up, so i am a happy man today =D !!

Time to get ready for my futsal, have a great week ahead !

PS: MANCHESTER UNITED OWNS YOU LIVERPOOL CUNTS. <3>

Messi or Maradona? Pointless debate.

With three electric performances and eight goals against Valencia, Stuttgart and Real Zaragoza, debate is rife in Spain about whether Lionel Messi is the greatest footballer ever? He's certainly the best I've ever witnessed, but Diego Maradona, Pele and Johann Cruyff were before my time. I've seen videos of Maradona, and THAT goal against England in Mexico '86. And there's that brilliant photo of 'El Pelusa' on the ball, with six defenders around him, all looking suitably petrified. But I believe to judge the greatness of a footballer like Maradona or Pele, you have to have been a fan during his time. Pedro has come out saying Messi is far better than Maradona was, but Pedro was only born the year after Maradona lifted the World Cup. What's certain is that they both represent all that is beautiful about football; past and present. Technique, touch, vision, audacity and an ability to create something out of absolutely nothing. Besides, they played in different eras, under different conditions and against different teams. Instead of worrying if Messi is better or worse than Maradona, I'm going to savour everything this little genius has to offer.

Messi Messi Messi! Leo masterclass in La Romareda

Real Zaragoza 2 - 4 Barcelona

(1-0) 4' Messi, (2-0) 65' Messi, (3-0) 78' Messi, (1-3) 85' Colunga, (2-3) 89' Colunga, (2-4) 90' Ibrahimovic

If there ever was a debate about who is the worlds best footballer, the last two weeks has surely settled it. Lionel Messi is magical. Dazzling. Simply unstoppable. Cristiano Ronaldo is a fantastic footballer. Wayne Rooney is having a fantastic season. But neither come close to Leo Messi. Real Zaragoza had no answer to his twisting runs, his deadly accuracy and ultimately his three goals. The first was a cute  header from a Pedro cross. The second was truely world class. Robbing Ander Herrera of the ball in the centre of the pitch, he set off on one of his trademark runs. Skipping one challenge, he charged into the area, turning Contini inside out in the box before firing past Roberto. The hattrick duely came after 78 minutes, when he collected a pass just outside the area before unleashing a pinpoint curler just inside Robertos right post. Two quickfire goals from Adrian Colunga threatened to ruin the party, but yet another mesmerising Messi run drew a rugby challenge inside the box, which allowed an otherwise misfiring Zlatan Ibrahimovic to fire in from the spot. Leo has now scored 8 in his last three matches. Two hattricks and a Champions League double against Stuttgart. We've had Pele, Cruyff and Maradona. Sit back and enjoy Messi.

Valencia 2 - 0 Almería

(1-0) 63' Mata, (2-0) 70' Silva

Valencia consolidate their position behind the top two as they eventually broke through a stubborn Almeria to score two quick goals that puts them six points clear of fifth placed Sevilla. David Silva was the architect of both goals as his threaded pass set up Juan Mata for the first, before he scored the decisive second whilst lying on the floor. Champions League football looks certain for the Mestalla next season.

Mallorca 4 - 1 Atlético Madrid

(1-0) 10' Victor, (1-1) 25' Forlán, (2-1) 27' Aduriz, (3-1) 85' Perea (o.g), (4-1) 90' Mattioni

Only Atlético Madrid can go from the sublime glory of knocking Sporting Lisbon out of the Europa League to an ignominious thrashing at the hands of Mallorca. Today, minus Sergio Agüero, they were dreadful, epitomised by some pitiful defending from Luis Perea. Is there really no-one better waiting in the wings? Diego Forlán converted their one decent move, with the rest of the game an avalanche of Mallorcan chances, especially after Raul Garcias deserved 55th minute dismissal. Do not miss the fourth goal from Mattioni. A screamer.

Malaga 2 - 0 Villarreal

(1-0) 64' Baha, (2-0) 84' Baha

Osasuna 1 - 3 Racing Santander

(1-0) 32' Flaño, (1-1) 34' Colsa, (1-2) 50' Christian, (1-3) 89' Diop

Real Madrid fight back to go three points clear

Real Madrid 3 - 1 Sporting Gijon

(1-0) 53' Barral, (1-1) 54' Van der Vaart, (2-1) 57' Alonso, (3-1) 68' Higuain

Real Madrid rattled off their 14th consecutive league victory in the Santiago Bernabeu this season, as they came from behind to beat a plucky Sporting Gijon. The home fans certainly won't have relished a drab first half, and things got even worse after the break when an exquisite pass over the top from Camacho sent David Barral through on goal with the striker composing himself before firing an unstoppable shot past Iker Casillas. But back came Madrid only a minute later with a goal that had more than a hint of controversy about it, as Rafael Van der Vaart appeared to handle the ball in the box before shooting in after Juan Pablo could only parry Cristianos rocket of a free-kick. Then Real Madrid went straight into the lead, after a prodigious leap from Cristiano Ronaldo flicked on a corner towards an unmarked Xavi Alonso who made no mistake with his header from close range. Gonzalo Higuain rounded things off and made the points safe with a dashing run and shot, which takes his league total for the season to 20. They might not be setting the world alight, but they sure know how to grind out those league points, with Barcelona now obliged to get a win away to Real Zaragoza tomorrow. Advantage Real Madrid in the race for La Liga.

Xerez 2 - 1 Tenerife

(1-0) 7' Bermejo, (2-0) 15' Aythami, (2-1) 49' Nino

In terms of quality it was like watching a third division match, but Xerez won't care one bit as they grabbed three points that allows them to continue believing in the impossible. In all reality, Xerez staying up is impossible, especially when you think that they still have to travel to Sevilla, Valencia, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid before the season comes to a close. Even so, what Nestor Gorosito has achieved since he walked into the madhouse has been more than noteworthy, and Xerez fans will surely be thinking what could have been if we had started the season with the Argentine manager in charge. Mario Bermejo got the first early doors, but from where I was sitting it looked like the keeper Aragoneses took his header comfortably on the chest; the linesman must have seen him fall back behind the line. Aythami quickly made it two after some chaos in the Tenerife box, and it finally looked as if were about to witness a rout. The rout never materialised, and once midfield enforcer Sidi Keita was forced off injured, it all got very untidy in the middle of the park. Tenerife were awarded a dodgy looking penalty towards the end of the first half, but in the midst of pandamonium-like noise, newly restored keeper/hero Chema came to rescue, pushing away Ninos tame effort. Nino wasnt to be completely denied though, as the tiny striker somehow beat two huge centre halves to a header early in the second half, which cut the defecit. Tenerife probed for much of the second half, but the equaliser never came. So, can Xerez do the unthinkable and stay up? It would be the stuff of legend, but those away matches will surely put pay to any small hopes that still linger.

Espanyol 2 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 8' Osvaldo, (2-0) 60' Osvaldo

Is this the end of Manolo Jimenez as Sevilla boss? A tame defeat for the Andalucians as Espanyol ran the show in the Estadio Cornella. Espanyol unbeaten at home since losing 0-4 to Racing in December, a run that will surely secure their survival in La Liga.

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 2 Real Valladolid
(0-1) 39' Nauzet (0-2) 91' Medjunanin

Real Valladolid kept a clean sheet for the first time in 17 matches as they overcame a disappointing Deportivo la Coruña in the Riazor. The win keeps Valladolid very much alive in their fight for top flight survival as Depor take a step back in their hunt for the Europa League positions.

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 2 Getafe
(1-0) 13' Orbaiz, (1-1) 32' Manu, (2-1) 81' Llorente, (2-2) 86' Pedro Leon

Crazy match at the San Mames, as Getafe dominated but saw themselves obliged to fight back to earn a draw in the dying minutes. Orbaiz and Miguel Torres were sent off for either side as a feisty encounter ended in a draw that does little for either teams European ambitions.

Europa League Draw: Valencia and Atletico drawn together

The Europa League draw wasn't quite as kind on La Liga as the Champions League draw, as the only two Spanish sides left in the competition, Valencia and Atletico Madrid, were pitted against each other. To top it all off, the winner will most probably face competition favourites Liverpool in the semi-final. Even so it promises to be an electric clash between two sides that attack with relish and defend hesitantly. I predict a few goals in that one. Any tie with Diego Forlan, Sergio Agüero, David Villa and David Silva has goals written all over it. My prediction? Heart says Atletico, head says Valencia.

EUROPA LEAGUE QUARTER/SEMI DRAW:

Champions League Quarter-Final Draw: Barcelona get Arsenal

The Champions League quarter-final draw ensured that the two favourites, Barcelona and Manchester United wouldn't meet unless both made it to the final. But Barca couldn't avoid the English clubs completely as they drew Arsene Wengers Arsenal. Cesc Fabregas will be making a return to where it all started for the young lad from Vilassar de Mar, whilst another who'll be completing an emotional homecoming is Thierry Henry, who will play at the Emirates Stadium for the first time. Two clubs that like to stick the ball on the floor and pass it around a bit; should be an entertaining tie. Do Arsenal have enough steel at the back to halt Señores Messi, Iniesta, Pedro and Ibrahimovic? Do they possess enough firepower upfront to trouble Pique, Puyol and Valdes? I just can't see it happening. Should Barca progress they will play the winner of the tie between CSKA Moscow and Inter Milan. So we could be seeing 'The Translator' make a popular return to Catalonia.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUARTER FINAL DRAW:

(Ties to be played 30/31 March and 6/7 April)

Sporting Lisbon 2 - 2 Atletico Madrid | Werder Bremen 4 - 4 Valencia

Virtuoso performances from David Villa and Sergio Agüero ensured the Spanish contigent of Atletico Madrid and Valencia passed through to the quarter-finals of the Europa League. On a night full of goals, Sergio Agüero provided two of his own, as his one-man show in the first half was enough to push Atlético over the line. The diminutive striker, one of the best around on his day, was unplayable during the first 45 minutes. He set his first strike in motion as his burst set Simao away in the third minute, and when Antonio Lopez finally played the ball into the box, Agüero was there at the front post to knock the ball in and give Atletico a priceless early away goal. Although Atletico fell asleep to allow Leidson to draw Sporting level on the night, Agüero put his side firmly in the driving seat with a clever cutback and finish after a delightful through ball from Jose Antonio Reyes. Atletico dozed off again when Polga was given far too much time and space in the area to nod past De Gea, and the tie was very much in the balance from then on. But David de Gea was not going to let another one past, and Atleti held on to reach the quarters of a European competition for the first time in 11 years.

As for Valencias tie, where do you start. Eight goals, countless chances and incredible tension as Valencia and Werder Bremen played out one of the games of the season so far in the Weserstadion. David Villa helped himself to a hattrick as he proved that when it comes to sticking the leather in the net, there are few better in the world. David Silva played a vital role in all of Valencias first three goals as he pulled Werder all over the pitch with his clever movement and cunning passes. But credit must go to Tomas Schaafs team for never throwing in the towel, and every time Valencia looked out of sight, the Germans found another gear and pulled themselves back. Goals from Almeida, Torsten Frings, Marko Marin (one to look out for in the future) and Claudio Pizarro made Valencia sweat for their ticket to the quarters, but thanks to some vital stops from in-form Cesar they made it through to the last eight.