Barcelona Edges Rayo Vallecano to Top La Liga Table

2025-03-02

Barcelona secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on February 17, 2025, propelling them to the top of La Liga. Robert Lewandowski’s first-half penalty proved decisive, marking his 20th league goal of the season. The win saw Barcelona leapfrog rivals Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, who both dropped points earlier in the weekend.

The match began with Barcelona applying early pressure, and Raphinha came close to opening the scoring in the 24th minute, only to be denied by Rayo Vallecano goalkeeper Augusto Batalla. The breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Pathe Ciss fouled Inigo Martinez in the box, allowing Lewandowski to convert from the spot. Barcelona continued to dominate, with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha both testing Batalla, but the visitors held firm.

Rayo Vallecano had their chances, notably in stoppage time when Jorge de Frutos missed a golden opportunity to equalize, heading wide from close range. Despite their efforts, Rayo’s nine-match unbeaten streak in La Liga came to an end. Barcelona, now on 51 points, sit atop the table by goal difference, with the title race remaining tightly contested.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick praised his team’s performance but emphasized the need for improvement, stating, “We played a very good game, although I think we can do better in the future.” Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano, sixth in the standings, will look to bounce back in their next match against Villarreal. Barcelona’s next challenge is a trip to Las Palmas, as they aim to maintain their lead in the title race.

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