Athletic Bilbao won the Basque derby, while Valencia earned three vital away points in La Liga on Sunday. The former are now sixth, just one point behind reigning champions Barcelona and a place in the top four.
Bilbao were fifth after beating Real Sociedad 3-2 at San Mames, but a goal rush from Villarreal moved the Yellow Submarine ahead. Villarreal put five past Celta Vigo at El Madrigal and are performing superbly after losing former manager Marcelino just prior to the season.
Meanwhile, Valencia are now two points above the drop zone, thanks to a Mario Suarez double to beat Sporting Gijon at El Molinon.