Barcelona were not dead after all

Barcelona might have given up, seven points behind Real Madrid, a team in their 30s, without Riqui and Ansu, in great heat. But it was not the case.

Barca found the best Griezmann and played their best game in the new normal era. They have watched Madrid get penalty after penalty, scored by Ramos, but pushed on here regardless.

Griezmann looked like a new player, working inside, behind Suarez, with Messi as an enganche. Barca were without wingers, with Alba and Semedo opening up the pitch from deep. 

The Frenchman shone, scoring a great chip and forcing the first. And the other goal was a delight, Suarez's fine finish from Messi's ball.

The trident worked brilliantly with Sergi Roberto and Jordi Alba. Ansu added another from the bench. Riqui impressed too, more and more a first teamer it seems. 

On the least expected day, Barca played their best game against the most in form team in the league. They had 16 from 18 points. Barca seemed dead but they bounced back. This was the self-love of the champions. With four weeks to go, with or without VAR, there is still a fight to be had.