Robert Lewandowski scored the winning goal with a second-half volley, giving Barca a 1-0 win over Alavés and cutting the deficit behind LaLiga-top scorers Real Madrid to four points. The triumph was Barca’s second league win in a row, putting them on 45 points after 22 games, while Alavés, who are in danger of relegation, stayed in 18th place, two points away from safety. Barca had possession from the beginning, with Yamal creating chances early on, but Raphinha and Lewandowski failed to capitalize on their opportunities. A collision between Gavi and Tomás Conechny caused extended interruptions, but Barca kept their control over the match. In the 61st minute, Yamal and Lewandowski finally connected, with the Polish forward finishing after a deflection off Nahuel Tenaglia. Alavés’ goalkeeper, Jesús Owono, prevented Yamal from scoring a second, and despite a late surge, Toni Martínez failed to convert a late opportunity to draw level, securing Alavés’ second league loss under Eduardo Coudet.
First-Half Summary: Barca 0-0 Alavés
The opening 45 minutes at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys concluded without a goal, as Barca dominated possession but failed to penetrate a dogged Alavés defense. The hosts had opportunities early on, with Raphinha and Lewandowski both firing wide, while Pedri required a save from Jesús Owono. A premature blow was dealt to Barça when Gavi and Tomás Conechny collided heads, necessitating substitutions in the 14th minute. Ronald Araujo was booked for a cynical foul, and Alavés repeatedly found themselves caught offside, hindering their attacking flow. Although both teams had multiple set pieces and corners, neither could convert, leaving the score at 0-0 even after six minutes of stoppage time concluded the half.
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Second-Half Summary: Barca 1-0 Alavés
Barca eked out a 1-0 win against Alavés, thanks to Lewandowski’s game-winning goal in the 61st minute. He converted a close-range opportunity after a deflected cross. The second half witnessed a series of substitutions: Barca brought on De Jong and Ferran Torres, while Alavés added Hugo Novoa and Toni Martínez in a bid to level the score. Alavés had a golden opportunity late on when Martínez failed to convert from close range, but Barca maintained control of the ball and stifled their attack. The match concluded after four minutes of added time, which included yellow cards for Yamal and Fermín López. Despite Alavés’ late surge, Barca stood their ground to secure a crucial 3 points.
