Barca strengthen grip on top spot with routine win over Cadiz

Barcelona defeated Cadiz 2-0 at the Nou Camp thanks to first half goals from Sergi Roberto and Robert Lewandowski.

Despite pulling off a shock win at the Camp Nou last season, Cadiz came into this clash knowing they would have their work cut out against a totally different Barca side.

The hosts fashioned the first chance of the game within the first five minutes with Eric García heading wide from just outside the six-yard box.

Barcelona opened the scoring on the stroke of halftime after a period of complete dominance. 

Ferran Torres drove into the box and crossed for Robert Lewandowski whose header was cleared off the line and Sergi Roberto was on hand to slot home.

Minutes later, Lewandowski made it 2-0, when he received a pass just outside the penalty area, and coolly placed it in the corner for his 15th league goal of the season.

The second half bore a striking resemblance to the first as Barcelona once again totally dominated possession and ran the game at their own pace.

Cadiz thought they had a legitimate goal when Marti had the ball in the net, but it was ruled out for a foul in the buildup.

This result means Cadiz remain in 17th spot, while Barcelona restore their eight-point lead over Real Madrid at the top of the table. 

The Blaugrana can now turn their attention to the crucial Europa League second-leg tie against Manchester United on Thursday at Old Trafford.

Sergi Roberto has struggled to see meaningful minutes since the start of the season but he took his chance tonight. 

He got an opportunity in midfield due to the injuries to Pedri and Sergio Busquets and performed admirably by getting on the scoresheet and registering an assist.