By Hasan Esen

MADRID 

Spain’s champions Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 5-1 in a humiliating El Classico on Sunday.

Barca’s Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez stepped up in the absence of Lionel Messi to score a hat-trick at the La Liga game in Barcelona's Camp Nou stadium.

Barcelona controlled the first period with ease, building a two-goal lead over Real Madrid. Brazilian midfielder Marcelo scored for Real Madrid at the start of the second period briefly raising hopes of a comeback before a Suarez double and Arturo Vidal header sealed the game.

Barcelona now leads the leauge with seven points.  

Messi missed the game due to a major arm injury.