Sloppy Barca grind out win over Valladolid to stay on Real's heels


Soccer Football - La Liga Santander - Real Valladolid v FC Barcelona - Estadio Jose Zorrilla, Valladolid, Spain - July 11, 2020 Barcelona's Lionel Messi in action with Real Valladolid's Raul Garcia, as play resumes behind closed doors following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) REUTERS/Sergio Perez

VALLADOLID, Spain (Reuters) - Lionel Messi notched a 20th assist of the season to help a lacklustre Barcelona secure a 1-0 win away to Real Valladolid on Saturday, maintaining the pressure on La Liga leaders Real Madrid.

Chilean midfielder Arturo Vidal struck the only goal of the game in the 15th minute, firing into the net off the post after being played in by Messi, who now has 20 assists in the league to go with his 22 goals.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Football

Soccer-Carrick rekindles Old Trafford magic in perfect start
Soccer-Inter set Serie A title race pace with win at Udinese
Soccer-CAF president rejects accusation of FIFA influence
Soccer-Mbappe and Asencio strike as Real Madrid calm storm with 2-0 win over Levante
Soccer-Man Utd sweep past Man City as Carrick enjoys perfect start
Soccer-Diaz could be the key for Morocco in Afcon final against Senegal
Soccer-Raphinha in doubt for Sociedad game as Barca look to stretch LaLiga lead
Soccer-Senegal criticises Cup organisers as pre-final tensions mount
Soccer-Pique's Kings League aims for US launch, licensing amid global expansion
Soccer-Pique sees France as World Cup favourites, hopes US hype will last

Others Also Read