BARCELONA ended a three-game series of bad-tempered derbies against Espanyol on top by sealing their place in the Copa del Rey (King’s Cup) quarterfinals 6-1 on aggregate courtesy of a 2-0 win at Cornella-El Prat on Wednesday.

    Fresh from picking up his record fifth Ballon d’Or, Lionel Messi was once again Barca’s inspiration as he brilliantly picked out Munir El Haddadi to open the scoring before the youngster tapped home his second of the night late on.

    There was less aggression on the field than in the previous two meetings between the sides in the past 10 days, however, Espanyol could be punished for offensive banners towards Colombian popstar Shakira — the partner of Barca defender Gerard Pique — and Luis Suarez.

    Athletic Bilbao, Celta Vigo and Las Palmas also booked their places in the last eight to join Sevilla and Mirandes, which qualified Tuesday, for Friday’s quarterfinal draw.

    La Liga leader Atletico Madrid will host Rayo Vallecano tied at 1-1, whilst Gary Neville’s Valencia has one foot in the quarters as the side leads Granada 4-0.

    (SD-Agencies)