Barcelona moved closer to reclaiming the La Liga title after defeating Real Madrid at home and taking a commanding lead at the top of the standings. Sergi Roberto and Frank Kessie scored for the hosts, canceling out Ronald Arujao’s own goal, as Xavi Hernandez’s men maintained their recent dominance over Real. Read complete details about Barcelona topping La Liga after beating Real Madrid below with us!
Barcelona tops La Liga after beating Real Madrid
Karim Benzema and Robert Lewandowski tested Marc Andre ter Stegan and Thibaut Courtois within the first two minutes, setting the tone for an instant classic. Real’s early pressure paid off in the ninth minute when Vinicus Jr’s harmless-looking cross deflected off Arujao and into his net for a bizarre own goal. As the half progressed, Barcelona’s aggressiveness rose, with Raphinha, Roberto. Plus, Lewandowski all eliciting saves from Courtois.
The Belgian was ultimately beaten in the 45th minute as Roberto equalized after a penalty box scramble. In the second half, Barcelona and Madrid traded chances again. But neither could make a mark until the 81st minute when Marco Asensio touched the ball home only for VAR to rule him out.
Also, their tragedy prompted Barcelona to launch one final attempt, which resulted in Kessie firing home the game-winning goal in the 91st minute. Plus, Barcelona now leads La Liga with 68 points after 26 games, 12 points ahead of Real Madrid in second and 17 points ahead of Atletico Madrid in third. Despite the Champions League and Europa League, it will be a fantastic season if Xavi can accomplish the league and Copa del Rey double.
