BARCELONA - An Alexis Sanchez brace helped Barcelona to a 4-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Tuesday, which reduced Real Madrid's lead to three points and showed it will not give up its title without a fight.

Barca was given a quick chance to respond to its 1-0 away defeat to Getafe at the weekend as this fixture was brought forward due to the Catalan side's involvement in the Club World Cup next month in Japan, and it ran out a resounding victor.

While Real has been in ominous form and recorded its 13th consecutive victory by beating local rival Atletico Madrid over the weekend, Barca has stuttered recently away.

At home though, it has been as impressive as ever and with its victory over Rayo it has now scored 34 goals without reply at the Camp Nou.

Barca coach Pep Guardiola was keener to praise Sanchez's impact on his return.

"Alexis (Sanchez) isn't a striker but he also can do this job which helps us a lot," said Guardiola.

"He was injured for a while but before that he was very useful for us and then coming back he needed a bit of time. I have to congratulate him for his performance here."

Rayo coach Jose Ramon Sandoval was satisfied his team gave its best.

"There was nothing for us to do but show our credentials by going out to win. We have given the Primera Division our style of football and I am more proud than ever of my players," he said.

Agence France-Presse