Robert Lewandowski leads Barcelona past Rayo Vallecano to go top of La Liga

New Delhi:  Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski scored from the penalty spot to secure a 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano. The win returned Barcelona to the top of the standings, leading on goal difference. Three weeks ago, the Catalans were seven points behind first place, but taking advantage of Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid’s weekend slip-ups. 

In the 28th minute, the Poland striker converted the penalty scoring his 20th league goal of the season after Rayo midfielder Pathe Ciss was booked for pulling down Inigo Martinez in the box in the 27th minute. The penalty was awarded after a VAR review.

🇪🇸 La Liga – Robert Lewandowski with the penalty goal against Rayo Vallecano 🔥pic.twitter.com/Jqgfr9gwz6

— Scouting Polska (@ScoutingPolska) February 17, 2025

The visitors protested when they were denied a penalty in a similar incident involving Ciss. Rayo thought they had levelled when Jorge de Frutos scored but Randy Nteka was adjudged offside for interfering with Martinez.

Both sides missed several chances to score in the second half. A fine save from Rayo’s goalkeeper Augusto Batalla prevented Lamine Yamal from scoring in his 100th career appearance. On the other end, Jorge De Frutos had the ball in the net for Rayo in stoppage time, but his goal was ruled out for offside.

After the match, Hansi Flick said, “It was hard work for the players, and at the end, we are happy. We are happy with our new position. My team played pretty well, although we can do better.” Barcelona are now level with their arch-rivals Real Madrid on 51 points, and one point ahead of Atletico Madrid.

Barça are BACK ON TOP. 😱

WHAT A TITLE RACE! 👀 pic.twitter.com/FhcUT6DI57

— LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) February 17, 2025

What next?

Barcelona have now extended their unbeaten run to 12 matches while ending Rayo Vallecano’s 10-match unbeaten run. With 14 games left to play Barcelona will aim to remain at the top of the table. They will look to carry this momentum into their next match against Las Palmas on Sunday. 

 Robert Lewandowski’s penalty secures Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano, taking them to the top of La Liga standings.  Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today