Barcelona were unable to prevent arch rivals Real Madrid from winning a record 30th Spanish league title even though it thrashed relegated Gimnastic 5-1 in the final match of this season.

Both Barcelona and Real Madrid were tied on points at the top of the table, but Madrid were in the driver's seat courtesy a better head-to-head record against their Catalan rivals. Madrid's amazing second half comeback from a goal down to win the match 3-1 against Mallorca meant that Barcelona had to go empty handed for the first time in three years.

For nearly three fourths of the game, Barcelona fans were delighted that their team will be lifting a third league title in as many years. Barcelona came into the match in an attacking mood, determined to do everything that they can and leaving the rest to the fates.

The first chance of the match fell to Eto’o in the 13th minute, but the striker was not able to convert Ronaldinho's cross. However there was a festive atmosphere by the quarter mark, when news filtered that Mallorca had taken the lead against Madrid through Varela.

The news boosted the spirits of the players and Barcelona struck in the 20th minute when Carlos Puyol managed to get his foot to Messi's cross. Barca laid siege on the Gimnastic goal and were rewarded 15 minutes later when Messi managed to outfox a couple of defender before his curling shot flew past the Gimnastic keeper and into the net.

Two minutes later Ronaldinho increased Barca's lead through a free kick from the edge of the area. Second half was a replica of the first, with Barca dominating possession and creating chances.

Messi scored his second of the game in the 51st minute through a simple tap in after Eto'o had done well to provide the Argentine with the chance. Enthusiasm began to dip by the 65th minute when news came that Madrid had equalized through Reyes.

Gimnastic grabbed a consolation goal in the 83rd minute through Grahn, but by then the league title was over for Barcelona with Madrid taking the lead against Mallorca. They were able to add a fifth goal in the injury time through Zambrotta, but by then the title was on its way to Madrid.