Barcelona edged past Alaves 3-1 on Saturday, with Dani Olmo scoring twice to secure a win that temporarily puts the Catalans at the top of La Liga.
Alaves stunned the hosts by taking the lead in the first minute through Pablo Ibanez. However, teenage star Lamine Yamal quickly equalised, assisted by Raphinha, who returned from injury.
Olmo Gives Barca the Lead
Midway through the first half, Dani Olmo struck to give Barcelona the advantage. He later added a second goal late in the match to seal the victory at their partially rebuilt Camp Nou stadium.
This win keeps Barcelona two points ahead of Real Madrid, who face Girona on Sunday.
Celebrations Tempered by Champions League Defeat
Barcelona’s 126th anniversary celebrations were slightly subdued after a 3-0 Champions League loss to Chelsea midweek. Nevertheless, the team secured their fourth consecutive league victory.
Olmo expressed his delight after the match:
“They caught us by surprise in the first minute, but the team came back strongly. We got the first, then the second, and dominated the game. It’s a dream to play here, score, and help the team win.”
Team News and Tactical Adjustments
Barca were without Ronald Araujo and Frenkie de Jong, while Jules Kounde started on the bench after an own goal at Stamford Bridge.
Manager Flick started Raphinha for the first time since injury and returned Marc Bernal to midfield following his long-term layoff. These changes strengthened the squad and helped control the match.
Key Moments and Highlights
Alaves initially threatened with Ibanez’s opener after a defensive error by Marc Casado, allowing Victor Parada to assist the goal.
Barcelona responded immediately. Yamal blasted a low cross from Raphinha into the top corner, tying the game. Later, Raphinha’s cut-back enabled Olmo to drill the ball inside the near post for the match-winning goal.
Goalkeeper Joan Garcia also made a crucial save to deny Calebe and maintain Barca’s lead.
