Robert Lewandowski’s second-half goal secured a crucial 1-0 win for Barcelona against Deportivo Alaves at the Camp Nou on Sunday, helping them capitalize on Real Madrid’s shock defeat to Espanyol the day before.
With this victory, Hansi Flick’s side moved up to 45 points, closing the gap to just four points behind league leaders Real Madrid and inching closer to second-placed Atletico Madrid.
⚽ Match Highlights:
- Early Threat:
Barcelona started brightly, with Lamine Yamal dazzling the crowd with a mazy run in the opening minutes. His effort set up Raphinha, who fired just wide from close range. - Injury Concerns:
A worrying clash of heads between Gavi and Tomas Conechny saw both players forced off the pitch, disrupting the game’s flow in the first half. - Frustration Before the Break:
Lewandowski had a chance to break the deadlock with a powerful left-footed strike that went narrowly wide. Despite dominating possession, Barcelona struggled to seriously test Alaves goalkeeper Jesus Owono before halftime. - Breakthrough Goal:
Just after the hour mark, Barcelona finally found the breakthrough. Yamal’s deflected cross fell kindly to Lewandowski, who reacted sharply to fire a first-time finish past Owono. - Defensive Discipline:
After taking the lead, Barcelona managed the game smartly, protecting their advantage to secure their 15th La Liga victory of the season.
📊 Data Debrief: “Lewangoalski” Strikes Again
- Robert Lewandowski scored his 18th La Liga goal of the season, reaffirming his role as Barcelona’s key talisman.
- This was his 60th La Liga goal in just 90 appearances for Barcelona—making him the third-fastest player to reach that milestone in Spanish top-flight history, behind:
- Cristiano Ronaldo (61 games)
- Luis Suarez (66 games)
- Lewandowski has now scored the opening goal in a La Liga match for a league-high seventh time this season.
- Lamine Yamal’s Impact:
- Attempted 21 dribbles (11 completed)—the most by any Barcelona player in a single La Liga game since Lionel Messi’s 20 dribbles vs Mallorca in 2007.
- Created 3 key chances, more than any other player on the pitch.
🔜 What’s Next for Barcelona?
With their title hopes very much alive, Barcelona will aim to maintain this momentum in their upcoming fixtures. Real Madrid’s slip-up has reopened the title race, and Flick’s men are determined to seize the opportunity.
Final Score:
Barcelona 1-0 Deportivo Alaves
(Goal: Lewandowski 61’)
