i think kishimoto wants us to be in awe of how much naruto and sakura have grown in the last two years.... but they still can't take out akatsuki by themselves-- or at least, that's the impression he's giving us.

personally, i've completely let go of that thread of "realism" (in naruto world, hah!) the moment chiyo and sakura were able to take out sasori. at this point, it's all up in the air for me. just get the story moving!!