ANDRES Iniesta and Carles Puyol scored to help Barcelona to a 2-1 comeback victory at home to Valencia on Saturday, but it was Real Madrid who moved to the top of La Liga with a 4-1 win in Malaga.
Valencia started the day as the unbeaten league leaders in Spain and Pablo Hernandez’ strike before the break had their hosts on the rack.
The champions rose to the challenge in the second half, however, and fit-again Spain midfielder Xavi set up both goals to put them second with 16 points from seven games, ahead of Valencia on goal difference.
Jose Mourinho’s Real climbed one point above both of them after the late game, two goals apiece from Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo sweeping them past Malaga.
Earlier, Atletico Madrid overcame local rivals Getafe 2-0 with goals from Simao, whose freekick went in after hitting the post.
Spain midfielder Xavi said he was still struggling through injury after returning to action.
The diminutive playmaker withdrew from the Spain squad for their recent Euro 2012 qualifiers and after two weeks working to overcome pain in his Achilles tendons he set up both goals as Barca came back to beat Valencia 2-1.
Barca host Champions League Group D leaders FC Copenhagen on Wednesday, while Real Madrid take on AC Milan at home and Valencia travel to play Rangers on Wednesday.
