Barcelona claimed a crucial derby victory over Espanyol and strengthened their grip on first place. Late goals from Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski decided the match. The result moved Barcelona seven points clear at the summit of La Liga. The leaders controlled possession for long spells. Clear chances remained rare for much of the game.
Late surge breaks Espanyol resistance
Hansi Flick’s team struggled to break through an organized Espanyol defense. Patience finally paid off four minutes from time. Fermin Lopez changed the game after coming on. He slipped a precise pass into Dani Olmo’s path. Olmo curled a brilliant shot into the top corner. The goal lifted the stadium and shifted the momentum.
Barcelona continued to press after taking the lead. Lopez again provided the decisive contribution. He surged down the right flank and picked out Lewandowski. The striker guided a composed finish from close range in the 90th minute. The late double strike sealed the derby.
Barcelona have now scored 12 goals in the final 15 minutes this season. No other La Liga side matches that record. The statistic reflects their fitness and belief. Late pressure continues to deliver decisive moments.
Fast start and goalkeeping heroics
Espanyol began the Catalan derby with intensity and ambition. Former Blackburn Rovers forward Tyrhys Dolan tested the defense early. A blocked shot after four minutes signaled their intent. The hosts pressed high and disrupted Barcelona’s rhythm.
Goalkeeper Joan Garcia played a central role for the visitors. The former Espanyol player produced several vital saves. The 24-year-old left the club last summer after nine years. He denied his old teammates repeatedly. His performance kept Barcelona level for long periods.
Marko Dmitrovic later replaced Garcia. He made a crucial save in the 72nd minute. Eric Garcia looked certain to score from close range. Dmitrovic reacted sharply to preserve the draw. Barcelona kept pushing as time ran down.
Title race and league context
Second-placed Real Madrid remain Barcelona’s closest challengers. They can reduce the gap on Sunday afternoon. A home win against Real Betis would cut the deficit to four points. The pressure at the top remains intense.
Espanyol continue to struggle against their city rivals in the league. Their last victory over Barcelona came in 2009. The club stays in fifth place despite a disciplined display. Barcelona leave the derby with momentum and a growing cushion at the top.
