Lewandowski Hat-Trick Lifts Barcelona Close to Real Madrid

Barcelona delivered a commanding performance away at Celta Vigo, securing a 4-2 victory that keeps them firmly in the LaLiga title race. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski was the standout performer, netting a spectacular hat-trick in the 10th, 37th, and 73rd minutes to guide his side to victory. Young talent Lamine Yamal added the fourth goal before halftime, showcasing Barcelona’s attacking prowess.

Lewandowski’s Clinical Finishing Steals the Show

Lewandowski’s three-goal haul demonstrated his clinical finishing and movement in the box. His impressive performance came after recovering from injury, with manager Hansi Flick praising the striker’s form. “After his injury, I’ve seen a different Lewandowski, a positive one,” Flick told reporters. The 36-year-old’s corner-kick goal in the 73rd minute exemplified his versatility, while assist provider Marcus Rashford played a crucial supporting role in unlocking Celta’s defense through set-piece opportunities.

Celta Fight Back But Fall Short

Celta Vigo mounted a spirited response with goals from Sergio Carreira and Borja Iglesias in the 11th and 43rd minutes respectively. However, Barcelona’s attacking efficiency and match control proved decisive. The victory elevates Barcelona to 28 points, just three points behind Real Madrid at the summit of the standings. Celta Vigo remain in 13th place with 13 points, five points adrift of European qualification positions.

A late incident saw Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong receive a second yellow card in stoppage time, forcing him to miss the next fixture. Despite this setback, Flick expressed satisfaction with the result heading into the international break.