Barcelona kept pace with Real Madrid in La Liga with an unconvincing victory over Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou on Saturday, 2-0.

Andres Iniesta scored in the 40th minute with a high-powered shot that splashed into the roof of the net, and Lionel Messi added a penalty score in the 58th minute to hold off Athletic.

The win puts Barcelona within six points of rivals Real Madrid, who defeated Osasuna on Saturday, 5-1.

Though Barcelona defeated Athletic by multiple goals, the Catalans only controlled the ball for 55 percent of the match, which is far less than they usually have possession.

Osasuna put pressure on the Barcelona goal, but only managed four shots, with one target, while Barcelona took 20 shots with 14 on goal.

Barcelona have a major Champions League test on Tuesday when they face AC Milan at Camp Nou. The Catalans failed to score in the first leg,

Their next La Liga opponent is Real Zaragoza on April 7.

Here are the highlights for Barcelona - Athletic Bilbao:

Barcelona 2-0 Athletic Bilbao by goalsarena2012-3

Real Madrid Lionel Messi Real Madrid Lionel Messi