Raphinha's goal against Athletic Bilbao keeps Barcelona's nine-point clear at top of La Liga
Raphinha scored the only goal as La Liga leaders Barcelona defeated Athletic Bilbao 1-0 at San Mames to restore their nine-point lead over second-placed Real Madrid.
Barcelona.The Brazil international struck in first-half stoppage time, with the effort being given after a VAR check after the flag had initially gone up for offside.
Barca then benefited from the technology again in the 89th minute, Inaki Williams thinking he had equalised but VAR spotting a handball in the build-up, as Xavi's men saw out the 1-0 win.
Fourth-placed Real Sociedad were held 1-1 at Mallorca, seeing Carlos Fernandez's early opener cancelled out by Lee Kang-in shortly after the break. The visitors had Mikel Merino sent off in the closing stages.
Real Betis and Villarreal, in fifth and sixth respectively, also drew 1-1.
Sevilla moved out of the relegation places after they came from behind to defeat fellow strugglers Almeria 2-1 at home, with Erik Lamela netting a 73rd-minute winner.
Jorge Sampaoli's side move up to 13th, two points clear of the drop zone, with Getafe replacing them in 18th place.
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