La Liga
Robert Lewandowski Nets Hat-trick As Barcelona Edges Pass 10-man Valencia
Barcelona managed to secure a crucial 4-2 comeback victory against Valencia at Olimpic Lluis Companys, ending their two-match losing streak and reducing Valencia’s hopes of European football.
They started with Valencia creating early chances, with Hugo Duro and Peter Gonzalez failing to capitalize on opportunities to put the visitors ahead. Despite Valencia’s dominance in chances creating, it was Barcelona who struck first, with Fermin Lopez heading in a precise cross from Raphinha. This marked Barcelona’s first shot on target, catching the away crowd by surprise.
However, Barcelona’s typically reliable goalkeeper, Marc-Andre tergen, surprisingly allowed Valencia to equalize just five minutes later. A miscalculated clearance led to Duro capitalizing on the error, scoring the equalizer. The momentum continued to swing in Valencia’s favor as Ronald Araújo’s foul inside the box allowed Pepelu to convert a penalty, Valencia in the lead.
The drama didn’t end there, as Mamardashvili’s mishandling of a backpass gifted the ball to Lamine Yamal, who capitalized on the opportunity. In a desperate attempt to stop the youngster’s advance, Mamardashvili resorted to using his hand outside the penalty area to prevent the potential goal-scoring opportunity. VAR spotted the infringement, leaving the referee no choice but to show a red card leaving Valencia 10 men.
Barcelona capitalized on the man advantage, with Lewandowski heading in a corner from İlkay Gundogan to equalize. As the second half progressed, Barcelona continued to press forward, with Valencia defending resolutely. However, Lewandowski’s abilities came into play, as he capitalized on a defensive error to nod in a second goal, giving Barcelona the lead. The Polish striker then completed his hat-trick with a stunning free-kick in the stoppage time, sealing a remarkable victory for Barcelona.
The win moved Barcelona into second place in the league standings, setting the stage for an exciting encounter against Girona in the upcoming match. On the other hand, Valencia suffered consecutive defeats for the first time since October, dealing a blow to their European aspirations.
