Barcelona comfortably defeated Osasuna 2-0 at home on Thursday. This victory ensures they remain at the top of La Liga with a three-point advantage as they head into a crucial weekend in the tight race for the league title.
The home team scored both goals early in the match. Ferran Torres opened the scoring in the 11th minute, followed by Dani Olmo with a penalty just 10 minutes later. This early lead allowed Barcelona to control the game. They dominated Osasuna in shots, 19 to three, and prevented Osasuna from getting a single shot on target. This was achieved even without key players Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, who were returning from international duty. However, Lewandowski did come off the bench and scored the team`s third goal in the 77th minute.
This match was originally scheduled earlier in the month but was postponed by La Liga due to the passing of Barcelona`s team doctor, Carles Minarro Garcia. This is why the game was played shortly after the international break.
Key Moments of the Match
Barcelona established their dominance early with Torres` goal in the 11th minute. This goal was the result of good teamwork and highlighted Barcelona`s fluid attacking play this season. Alejandro Balde deserves credit for a brilliant pass across the goal that set up Torres for an easy close-range finish.
Player of the Match
Besides scoring the opening goal, Ferran Torres was active throughout his 68 minutes on the field. He took four shots and had an expected goals (xG) of 1.18, a significant portion of the team`s total xG of 3.19. Torres continues to prove his value as an effective attacking option, even when Lewandowski and Raphinha are not in the starting lineup.
Impact of the Result for Barcelona
Barcelona has now played the same number of games as their La Liga rivals and holds a three-point lead over Real Madrid, who are in second place. Their lead over Atletico Madrid is seven points with 10 games remaining in the season.
What`s Next
Barcelona will continue their La Liga campaign on Sunday against Girona, who are currently 13th in the league. Following that, they will play the second leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal against Atletico Madrid. The first leg in February ended in a 4-4 draw.
