Valencia moved up to fourth place with a 3-0 win at 10-man Almeria thanks to second-half goals from David Villa, Pablo Hernandez and Mata -- the latter two coming after home goalkeeper Diego Alves was sent off.

CNN: Barcelona return to winning ways with Zaragoza rout

With an emphasis on gifted ball-playing technicians such as Xabi Alonso, Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta and David Silva, even seasoned football-watchers were left open-jawed by the fluidity and smooth control of Spain's unique short-passing style of play, setting the standards that many are now attempting to imitate.

BBC: Spain's year: Football glory, economic gloom

Hernandez is playing full-back because Stade already have France stars David Skrela and Lionel Beauxis at number 10.

BBC: Juan Martin Hernandez