In an intense showdown on Monday, Robert Lewandowski stepped up to the pressure and converted a first-half penalty, leading Barcelona to a narrow 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano. 🥅⚽️
This hard-fought win catapults Barcelona to the top of the Spanish La Liga standings, snatching the lead from Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, who both dropped points over the weekend. Now, Barcelona stands strong at 51 points, level with Real Madrid but ahead on goal difference.
Lewandowski, the Polish superstar, found the back of the net with a clean finish from 12 yards out in the 28th minute, following a slick play where Pathe Ciss fouled Inigo Martinez inside the box.
Despite dominating possession throughout the match, Barcelona faced resilience from Rayo Vallecano, who threatened with several chances of their own. In stoppage time, Rayo had a golden opportunity to equalize, but Jorge de Frutos missed a close-range header, sealing Barcelona’s victory.
With this crucial win, Barcelona not only strengthens its position at the top but also sends a clear message to its rivals as the race for the La Liga title heats up. 🌟🔥
Reference(s):
Barcelona edge Rayo Vallecano to claim top spot on Lewandowski penalty
cgtn.com
