Forlan on form

Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan scored twice as Villarreal humbled Primera Liga leaders Barcelona 3-0 to extend their unbeaten run to five matches and hand a major boost to title challengers Valencia and Real Madrid.

Forlan opened the scoring after 30 minutes, and after Gonzalo Rodriguez had added the second just after the break, Forlan wrapped up the victory with the third goal five minutes from time.

The result means Villarreal are now eighth in the standings, and Barca are now only seven points above Valencia and Real Madrid.

Wanderley Luxemburgo’s galvanised Real Madrid side eventually ran out comfortable 3-0 winners in the Madrid derby – but rivals Atletico gave them a fright.

Ronaldo’s early goal was added to in the final 10 minutes by Santiago Solari and then Ronaldo again, with Liverpool target Fernando Morientes and ex-Anfield striker Michael Owen making late substitute appearances.

Espanyol came from behind to destroy Osasuna 4-1 while Albert Luque struck twice for Deportivo La Coruna in the 2-2 draw at Real Mallorca.

Albacete beat Real Sociedad 2-0 while three sendings-off marred Racing Santander’s 2-1 victory over Malaga. Real Zaragoza beat Real Betis 1-0.