Marcus Rashford was on the scoresheet as Barcelona sealed a comfortable 3–1 victory over Elche on Saturday to maintain their advantage at the top of La Liga.

The reigning champions made a fast start at the Martínez Valero Stadium, taking the lead in the sixth minute when Dani Olmo slipped a precise through ball to Lamine Yamal. The 18-year-old rounded Elche goalkeeper Iñaki Peña before calmly slotting into an empty net.

Hansi Flick’s side created a host of clear chances in an open and entertaining contest. Still, a combination of poor finishing and the woodwork prevented them from recording a more emphatic scoreline.

Second-placed Real Madrid, coached by Álvaro Arbeloa, hosts Rayo Vallecano on Sunday and will look to cut Barcelona’s lead back to a single point.

Elche, who sit 12th, showed why they have impressed this season by creating chances of their own, but Barcelona’s quality ultimately told despite their wastefulness in front of goal.

“We got three more points, and we’re still growing as a team, which is very important because I don’t think we’ve reached our top level yet,” midfielder Frenkie de Jong told Movistar.

“Normally, we have players who finish very well. Sometimes you miss your chances, but the important thing is that we’re creating them.”