Youthful Barca beat Valladolid to go seven points clear

Barcelona fought back from an early deficit to secure a 2-1 victory at relegated Real Valladolid on Saturday, extending their lead at the top of LaLiga to seven points. Second-half goals from Raphinha and Fermin Lopez sealed the comeback win for Hansi Flick’s side.

Valladolid took a surprise lead in the sixth minute when Ivan Sanchez converted Raul Moro’s through ball, his deflected cross finding the far post past the returning Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The Barcelona goalkeeper was making his first appearance after a seven-month injury layoff. “I was really looking forward to playing this game,” Ter Stegen told DAZN. “It’s always better to win. We continue with the same dynamic, which was important. We’re looking forward to the next few weeks, which are going to be great for everyone.” He also acknowledged Valladolid’s plight, adding, “When you’re 1-0 down it’s difficult on any pitch. They had nothing to lose. I’m sorry they’re getting relegated because they’re a spectacular team with these fans.”

Barcelona struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with Valladolid goalkeeper Andre Ferreira denying Ansu Fati and Lopez. The match was briefly paused due to an injury to debutant Dani Rodriguez, who was replaced by Lamine Yamal.

However, Barcelona found their breakthrough after the interval. Substitute Raphinha equalized in the 54th minute with a stunning half-volley after Ferreira parried Yamal’s cross. Six minutes later, Lopez completed the turnaround, firing home from distance following a precise pass from Gerard Martin.

Barcelona pushed for a third, with Hector Fort hitting the post and Antonio Candela clearing a Yamal shot off the line. Ter Stegen denied a late chance for substitute Juanmi Latasa, and Moro went close in the final minutes, but Barcelona held on for the win.

“The aim is to get three points and I’m happy to have done it,” commented Barca boss Flick, whose team now turn their attention to their upcoming Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan on Tuesday, following a 3-3 draw in the first leg, and next weekend’s ‘El Clasico’ against Real Madrid.