Barcelona Clinch Late Victory Over Las Palmas to Regain LaLiga Summit

Barcelona secured their fifth consecutive victory in LaLiga, triumphing over Las Palmas with a 2-0 scoreline to reclaim the top position from Atlético Madrid during a riveting Saturday evening clash at the pinnacle of Spanish football.

With Atlético Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, having defeated Valencia earlier that day, Hansi Flick recognised the necessity of maintaining an unbeaten streak in Gran Canaria for the 13th match in a row.

Facing a side that had previously bested them in the season’s earlier encounter, Las Palmas were on the hunt for their first-ever league double against the Catalans. The home team raised their game, seemingly shrugging off a recent dip in form that had left them hovering close to the relegation zone.

Former Barcelona player Sandro Ramírez nearly struck first in the opening half, sending a shot that tested Wojciech Szczęsny. As expected, Barcelona showcased phases of dominance, yet their opportunities were few and far between. Notably, the talented Lamine Yamal may have been more clinical, poorly directing a close-range effort wide in a lacklustre first half.

The tepid nature of the game clearly frustrated the travelling supporters, who had anticipated a strong response from a Barcelona side that appeared to have shifted gears in their league campaign. Given Las Palmas’ precarious league position, it was evident Barcelona were feeling the pressure; however, Flick’s halftime words seemed to invigorate the team.

Approaching the hour mark, Raphinha directed a header from Yamal’s precise cross off target, shortly after his penalty appeals were dismissed following a potential foul in the box. Nevertheless, as Barcelona intensified their efforts, Yamal ultimately provided the assist, showcasing a shrewd feint to create space before laying the ball off to Dani Olmo, who found the top corner with a shot that kissed the underside of the crossbar.

With Barcelona back in pole position in La Liga, the relief was palpable as they began to play with more freedom, exemplified by Lamine’s delightful Cruyff turn near the halfway line. After surviving a late scare from a potential handball, Barcelona inflicted a late blow on Diego Martinez’s side when Ferran Torres blasted the ball into the roof of the net following a well-placed pass from Raphinha, thereby securing the three points.

For a comprehensive match summary, click here.