Karim Benzema scored two penalties as Real Madrid cut Barcelona's lead at the top of LaLiga to eight points with an emphatic 4-0 win at bottom side Elche.
Pedri scored a decisive first-half goal for Barcelona against Villarreal to move the Catalans 11 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of LaLiga.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti hopes his side's Club World Cup success will prove a catalyst for further honours this season after recent domestic struggles.
Barcelona superstar Ousmane Dembele is hoping to return to action from injury against Real Madrid in March.
Real Madrid reached the Club World Cup final with a 4-1 victory over Al Ahly.
Real Madrid legend Raul Gonzalez has reportedly declined a Leeds coaching offer and decided to stay with the B team at Valdebebas.