The title seems to be slipping from Barcelona's grasp after a disappointing 0-0 at Valencia extended Real Madrid's lead to seven points. The Catalan outfit failed to score even after dominating the game leaving the relegation-threatened side with a vital point. Barcelona's closest effort of the game came in the 17th minute. Messi produced another well timed run and found himself one-on-one with the Villarreal keeper, Diego López. The Argentine chipped the ball but luck was not on Barça's side as the ball bounced wide. Victor Valdés was again on top form, punching a free kick away from the danger zone. The ball dropped near the goal line but Javier Mascherano headed the ball away before Eric Abidal blocked a shot that looked goal bound. Without the striking talents of David Villa and Alexis Sánchez on the pitch, Barcelona lacked their clinical edge. No strong chances flell their way leaving them frustrated and causing them to pick up more bookings then usual. Both
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Team name: Villarreal Club de Fútbol Recent form: W-L-D-L-D One to watch: Marco Rubén Competition: La Liga Fixture date: 28th January 2012 Stadium: El Madrigal After securing progression in the Copa del Rey, Barcelona next face Villarreal. El Submarino Amarillo are half way through a very disappointing season and are currently sitting at 17th in the La Liga table. They desperately need points but will be lucky to finish the weekend out of the drop zone. Barcelona also desperately need points in order to reduce the five point deficit between them and Real Madrid. By the time the game kicks off, Madrid will already have played their game against Real Zaragoza and Pep Guardiola will be hoping the point gap remains at five. Guardiola will be without David Villa, Ibrahim Affelay and Andrés Iniesta, who picked up a muscle tear in Wednesday's game. Leaving a first team spot for rising stars, Thiago and Cuenca. Villarreal's main problem this season has been their leak