After three games in the Spanish season, neither Barcelona or Real Madrid occupy the top two positions of the table. In fact, Valencia and Real Betis are the only two sides remaining in the top division who have a 100% start to the season.

Barcelona allowed Real Sociedad to snatch draw last week before a late goal saw them draw 2-2 against AC Milan in the Champions League.

It led to premature criticism of the Catalans from some quarters, forgetting that the Catalans are traditionally slow starters under Pep Guardiola. However, seeing arch-rivals Real Madrid lose at Levante on Saturday, Barca proceeded to make a resurgence with an 8-0 hammering of Osasuna.

Lionel Messi bagged a hat-trick as he started and finished the scoring, while David Villa bagged a brace. New signing Cesc Fabregas also continued his impressive start with a goal, while midfield maestro Xavi also chipped in. Osasuna defender Roversio was unfortunate to score an own goal, but Barcelona now sit at third in the table with seven points, behind Valencia and Real Betis.

Madrid were at the recieving end of an early-season shocker. Reduced to ten-men following Sami Khedira's red card, the Madridistas lost their 100% start to the season after Arouna Kone's goal proved to be the difference at Levante.

Khedira was sent off for a second bookable offence for shoving Sergio Ballesteros.

Real now sit at an unfamiliar fifth position, behind Seville who are level with Barcelona on 7 points.

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