Madrid - given a guard of honour by Valencia after their Copa del Rey win over Barcelona on Wednesday night - changed all but two players from the final but raced into a 4-0 lead at the break through Higuain (two), Karim Benzema and Kaka.

Further strikes from the Argentinian and the Brazilian in the second period, as well as three Valencia goals - scored by Roberto Soldado, Jonas Goncalves and Jordi Alba - finished a game that ensures the battle for the title continues for at least another two weeks.

However, Barcelona retain their eight-point lead at the top of the standings after beating Osasuna 2-0.

Lionel Messi netted his 50th competitive goal of the season and David Villa ended his goal drought as Barca recovered from the cup defeat.

Athletic Bilbao strengthened their hold on fifth place with a 2-1 win over Real Sociedad.

Athletic players were responsible for all three goals with Muniain opening the scoring in the 18th minute before Gaizka Toquero doubled the advantage.

But moments after the half-hour mark Javi Martinez put into his own net to give the visitors hope they could not build on.