The Catalans had the chance to cut the Merengues’ lead to five points but Almeria came back twice from behind to split the points of the match.

Ruben Pulido, 33, cancelled Bojan Krkic’s early strike for Barcelona. Samuel Eto’o restored the Blaugrana’s lead in the 57th minute but Nigerian striker Kala Uche came off the bench to snatch the equalizer six minutes before time.

Barcelona ended the game with only 10 men on the pitch as Argentinean defender Gabriel Milito was shown the red card in the 70th minute.

Andreas Iniesta had an early effort on goal that was deflected by the keeper but Krkic was well-placed and made no mistakes in front of goal.

Almeria went forward seeking the equalizer and Pulido met the corner with a glancing header in the far post.

Substitute Thierry Henry dribbled on the flank and crossed the ball to Eto’o who scored his 10th goal of the season.

Frank Rijkaard’s men seemed heading for the victory Milito’s red card blew their hopes as Uche scored the equalizer to get a precious point for Almeria and put much pressure on the Dutchman’s shoulders.