Malanginspirasi.com – For the first time in two months, Barcelona has overtaken Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga table after a narrow 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Monday, February 17, 2025. The match, held at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, featured a solitary goal from Robert Lewandowski.
Barcelona started the match aggressively, searching for space and creating several significant chances. Raphinha had two great opportunities early in the game but failed to capitalize on them. Similarly, Lamine Yamal squandered a golden chance while Barcelona dominated the first 25 minutes of the match.
Moments later, Iñigo Martínez was felled in the penalty area by Pathé Ciss. Initially, the referee dismissed the claims, determining there was no infraction.
However, after reviewing the VAR footage, the referee awarded a penalty kick. Robert Lewandowski took the responsibility and executed the penalty flawlessly, putting Barcelona ahead 1-0.
The visiting team, striving to equalize, played intensely and generated several dangerous chances. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny had to make numerous saves to protect his goal. Just before halftime, Jorge De Frutos managed to level the score, but his goal was disallowed due to striker Randy Nteka being in an offside position.
In the second half, although Barcelona maintained ball possession, they struggled to develop their play under Rayo Vallecano’s stringent pressure. In the final 15 minutes, Rayo relentlessly attacked in search of an equalizer, intensifying the defensive onslaught against Barcelona.
Ultimately, the score remained 1-0 in favor of the Blaugrana when the referee blew the final whistle.
This victory propelled Xavi Hernández’s squad to the summit of La Liga, surpassing Real Madrid. Despite both teams having 51 points from 24 matches, Barcelona claimed the top position on goal difference.
