Barcelona set 39-game unbeaten record

Barcelona has set a new La Liga record by remaining unbeaten for a 39th league round, following its 2-1 win over Valencia.

Real Sociedad had previously held the record for 39 years, set during the 1978-1979 and 1979-1980 seasons.

Still mourning its unexpected exit from the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals days earlier after losing 3-0 to Roma in the second leg, Barcelona moves one step closer to another La Liga title with the win on Saturday, Efe news reported.

The Catalan club had to overcome a rival looking to take advantage of the leaders' situation, threating the goal in the very beginning on Gonçalo Guedes's shot, which goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen blocked.

Barcelona struggled to find its rhythm, and was playing with nearly the same starting line-up that lost to Roma, likely seeking a form of redemption -- and they got what they were asked for.

Luis Suarez netted the first goal 15 minutes into the game, seizing on Philippe Coutinho's pass.

The goal, however, did not affect Valencia's spirit, as the visitors continued to threaten Barcelona's goal, but without making good on any of their opportunities, thanks in part to ter Stegen.

Valencia forward Rodrigo Moreno Machado, known simply as Rodrigo, squandered an opportunity to draw level on a counterattack just minutes into the second half.

Barcelona's advantage was secured after a header from Samuel Umtiti found the back of the net.

Lionel Messi and Coutinho unsuccessfully tried to increase Barcelona's lead, while Andres Iniesta's shot was blocked by Valencia's net minder Neto.

Despite dominating the game, Barcelona substitute Ousmane Dembele downed Jose Luis Gaya inside the area, prompting the referee to award Valencia a penalty with four minutes to go before the second-half stoppage time.

Daniel Parejo successfully converted the penalty, boosting Valencia's spirits.

Valencia could well have conceded a third goal if Neto had not prevailed over Denis Suarez in a one-on-one situation.

With the win, Barcelona extends its undefeated La Liga run, having not lost a match in the Spanish league since April 8, 2017.

--IANS

pgh/