In a compelling La Liga encounter on Saturday, Barcelona narrowly avoided a setback against Valladolid, who were recently relegated. The match saw second-half goals from Raphinha and Fermín López secure a 2-1 victory, edging Barcelona closer to the La Liga title as they poised for a crucial Champions League showdown with Inter Milan.
Coach Hansi Flick’s strategic decision to rotate the lineup ahead of the anticipated clash in Milan proved effective. The team eked out a win despite Valladolid’s early lead, courtesy of an Iván Sánchez effort that deflected off Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo and beat Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Ter Stegen was making a comeback after recovering from a knee injury sustained in September.
Barcelona’s fortunes began to turn just after the interval. Raphinha, entering the fray for Ansu Fati, brought Barcelona level in the 54th minute, seizing on a rebound at the edge of the area. Minutes later, Fermín López completed the turnaround with a well-placed shot into the corner of the net. Lamine Yamal, replacing the injured Daniel Rodríguez, contributed significantly to the revival by providing influential plays, though narrowly missed a goal himself when Antonio Candela cleared his shot from the line.
Despite some lineup changes, including resting mainstays like Pau Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez, Barcelona extended their lead over Real Madrid to seven points in the league table. With Madrid set to face Celta Vigo and another four games left in the season – including a showdown with Barcelona – the title race remains intense.
Ter Stegen expressed his delight at being back on the field, stating that “there is no better way to return than with a win.” He aims to maintain the team’s momentum with upcoming pivotal matches approaching. Meanwhile, Flick indicated that while Ter Stegen would continue his league appearances, Wojciech Szczesny would handle the Champions League duties. The match also marked Andreas Christensen’s first start of the season, adding to the team’s defensive solidity after his injury.
In another development, Barcelona midfielder Gavi Páez was substituted towards the end, with the nature of his discomfort unclear, adding to the team’s growing injury concerns, which already include key players like Robert Lewandowski and Jules Koundé.
Valladolid’s relegation invited controversy off the pitch as fans showcased their displeasure with club owner Ronaldo, protesting with flyers resembling currency depicting his image and urging his departure.
Elsewhere in La Liga, Atletico Madrid was held to a 0-0 draw at Alavés, leaving them five points adrift of Real Madrid. Villarreal, driven by Ayoze Pérez’s double, secured a 4-2 victory over Osasuna, strengthening its position for a Champions League spot next season. Valencia also achieved a crucial 3-2 triumph over Las Palmas, adding to the latter’s relegation woes.