The match at La Rosaleda between the Blue and Whites almost didn’t go ahead due to the heavy rains, but unfortunately it did, Barcelona moving to the top of La Liga after a 1-4 win.
Xavi opened the scoring for Barca after just five minutes but Málaga equalised a few minutes later, Duda the scorer. Messi restored Barcelona’s lead before Xavi grabbed his second of the night. Dani Alves put the result beyond doubt with a long free kick.
Leaders Valencia were beaten 2-4 by Racing Santander, their first defeat of the season. Tchité scored a hat-trick for Racing, the other goal courtesy of Albelda who put the ball past his own keeper. Villa and Joaquín were the scorers for Valencia.
Villarreal were comfortable 1-4 winners at Athletic, some consolation after their humiliating 5-0 drubbing by lowly Poli Ejido in the Copa del Rey. Rossi opened the scoring for Villarreal midway through the first half, only to see Etxeberría equalise two minutes later.
Pires restored their lead at the start of the second half and then Cazorla and substitute Altidore added further goals.
Atlético Madrid beat Mallorca 2-0 in the only other game played on Saturday, Kun Agüero getting both goals.