Torres' Hat-Trick Propels Barcelona to 5-3 Win Over Betis, Extending Liga Lead

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Barcelona's Ferran Torres netted a first-half hat-trick to secure a 5-3 victory over Real Betis on Saturday, solidifying their position at the top of La Liga. The win, which came despite a late comeback by Betis, leaves Barcelona four points clear of their closest rivals. In a thrilling match, Torres' impressive performance was complemented by goals from Lamine Yamal and Roony Bardghji. However, Betis managed to score two late goals, courtesy of Diego Llorente and Cucho Hernandez, to make the final scoreline 5-3. The win has significant implications for the La Liga title race, with Real Madrid, currently in second place, set to host Celta Vigo on Sunday. Atletico Madrid, in fourth place, will visit Athletic Bilbao later on Saturday. Barcelona's coach, Hansi Flick, made strategic changes to his lineup, starting Bardghji on the right wing and Torres up front, as well as moving Yamal into a central attacking midfield role. The team's performance was a testament to Flick's decision-making, as they dominated the match and secured a crucial victory. In other La Liga news, Villarreal maintained their pressure on the top two with a 2-0 win over 10-man Getafe on Saturday. Tajon Buchanan and Georges Mikautadze scored for Villarreal, who have now won six consecutive league games and are unbeaten since early October.