Barcelona staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat Espanyol, widening their lead at the top of La Liga. Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski scored the decisive goals in the closing minutes. The victory moved Barcelona seven points clear. They controlled possession for most of the match, but Espanyol’s organized defense kept the score level until the final moments.
Substitutes make the difference
Hansi Flick urged patience as his side searched for openings. Barcelona moved the ball efficiently and stretched Espanyol’s defensive lines. Fermin Lopez changed the game after coming off the bench. He threaded a perfectly timed pass to Dani Olmo. Olmo curled a brilliant shot into the top corner four minutes from time, giving Barcelona the lead.
Barcelona pressed relentlessly after taking the lead. Lopez again advanced on the right flank, creating space and delivering a precise cross. Lewandowski met the ball inside the box and finished calmly in the 90th minute. The late double strike secured the derby victory and ended Espanyol’s hopes.
Barcelona have now scored 12 goals in the final 15 minutes this season. No other La Liga team has reached that number. Their late-game dominance reflects both physical fitness and mental strength.
Espanyol start strong but goalkeepers shine
Espanyol began the derby with intensity and urgency. They pressed high and disrupted Barcelona’s buildup. Tyrhys Dolan tested the defense after four minutes, but a timely block denied a clear chance. The hosts maintained pressure throughout the first half.
Joan Garcia delivered a standout performance in goal for Barcelona. The former Espanyol keeper made several crucial saves. He left the club last summer after nine years. His reactions repeatedly frustrated the home side and preserved a level scoreline.
Marko Dmitrovic later replaced Garcia and remained alert. He denied Eric Garcia from close range in the 72nd minute. The save preserved parity at a key moment. A draw looked likely before Barcelona’s late surge decided the match.
Title race intensifies
Real Madrid remain second and continue chasing Barcelona. They can reduce the gap on Sunday with a home win against Real Betis. A victory would cut the deficit to four points and maintain pressure on the leaders.
Espanyol extended their long wait for a league derby win. Their last victory against Barcelona came in 2009. They remain fifth despite a disciplined performance. Barcelona leave the derby with momentum and a growing advantage at the top.
