Robert Lewandowski, the Barcelona striker, netted three goals in the second half, leading his team to a come-from-behind 4-2 victory against Valencia. The visitors had been ahead 2-1, but their chances were diminished when they were reduced to 10 players just before halftime.
Barcelona, with only five games left in LaLiga, reclaimed the second spot with 73 points. They overtook the unexpected contender Girona, who now sit in third place with 71 points.
The upcoming Catalonia derby between these two teams on Saturday carries significant implications. Not only could it determine a top-two finish in LaLiga, but it may also secure a spot in the Spanish Super Cup.
Barcelona’s victory has delayed Real Madrid’s seemingly inevitable LaLiga title celebrations. Carlo Ancelotti’s team currently leads the standings with 84 points.
Valencia remains in eighth place with 47 points, trailing Real Betis by two points and falling four points behind Real Sociedad in the race for a European qualifying position.
In Barcelona’s first match since manager Xavi Hernandez announced his decision to stay on beyond the season, they grappled with challenging conditions on a rain-soaked pitch. The game was characterized by goalkeeping errors and a frenetic pace.
Peter Federico missed a golden opportunity from close range, and shortly afterward, Fermín López scored for Barca with a header from a Raphinha cross.
Valencia’s Hugo Duro capitalized on a blunder by goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen in the 27th minute. Ter Stegen attempted to delicately chip a clearance from the edge of the box, but instead, he inadvertently gifted the ball to Duro, who equalized by slotting it into the empty net.
Later, another defensive mistake by Barca occurred when Ronald Araújo fouled Federico, resulting in a penalty that Pepelu converted to give the visitors the lead.
Valencia found themselves reduced to 10 men when goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili handled the ball outside his area just before halftime. His actions resulted in a red card, as he failed to control a back pass and used his arm to prevent Lamine Yamal from running through on an empty goal.
Barca intensified their attack in the second half, causing Valencia’s defense to collapse. Lewandowski secured two goals with headers from corner kicks in the 49th and 82nd minutes, and he later added another by converting a free-kick during added time.
Can we just take a moment to relive Lewandowski's hat trick? That was an absolute golazo and just beautiful to watch, wasn't it? pic.twitter.com/Kx6cLM9FUT
— Cule euphoria (@Cule_Euphoria) April 29, 2024
In the first half, we faced limited space,” commented Poland striker Lewandowski during an interview with DAZN. “However, as Barca, we understand that despite conceding two goals, we have the capability to score three or even four goals.
“We knew we had to play with patience in the second half. We’re good now and we have to think about Girona.”
Robert Lewandowski currently ranks fourth in La Liga’s top scorers, with 16 goals. He trails behind Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid and Alexander Sorloth of Villarreal by just one goal, while Artem Dovbyk of Girona leads the pack with three goals more.
Xavi said “I feel immense joy for Robert Lewandowski because he is an exceptional player who puts in extraordinary effort.”
“He serves as the team’s primary goal scorer and sets an example in the dressing room. His leadership is evident through his work ethic, determination, and courage. It’s no wonder he achieved a hat-trick today, and I’m genuinely thrilled for him.”
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