A year ago
Barcelona's rising talent Lamine Yamal illuminated a captivating 4-3 triumph for the Spanish champions against Villarreal in a thrilling La Liga clash on Sunday.
In only his second start for the club, the 16-year-old winger showcased his prowess, hitting the woodwork twice and masterfully assisting Gavi's opening goal, a performance that stood out amidst the chaotic on-field battle. Amid the high-octane exchange, the seasoned Polish striker Robert Lewandowski clinched the decisive winning goal, marking his first of the season. The goal followed Yamal's powerful drive that rebounded off the post, ultimately securing a provisional third-place position for Barca.
Coach Xavi, serving a suspension and observing from the stands, watched as his team defied the odds by establishing an early two-goal lead against the run of play. While Villarreal commenced with an energetic offensive, Barcelona's goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen thwarted Alexander Sorloth's cut-back and denied the Norwegian forward's disallowed goal due to an offside.
The momentum tilted in Barcelona's favor as Yamal orchestrated a precise cross, finding academy graduate Gavi, who expertly nodded the ball into the net. A mere three minutes later, Frenkie de Jong extended their advantage with a cool finish, benefiting from a fortuitous rebound after Alfonso Pedraza's challenge on Lewandowski.
Despite their commanding position, Barcelona's defense was penetrated as Juan Foyth's forceful header, off Alex Baena's corner, secured Villarreal's foothold in the game, marking the first goal conceded by Barcelona this season. Villarreal capitalized on their momentum, with Sorloth capitalizing on Pedraza's pinpoint cross, orchestrated by Gerard Moreno, pulling them further back into contention.
In the second half, Villarreal surged ahead through Pedraza's brilliant setup for Baena, who calmly slotted the ball into the net. Barcelona's captain, Sergi Roberto, faced difficulties in his right-back role, a position potentially occupied by Joao Cancelo from Manchester City, whom Barcelona is reportedly close to signing on loan.
Yamal, in lieu of the suspended Raphinha, continuously tested Villarreal's defense, striking the crossbar with a powerful attempt. Substitute Ferran Torres contributed to the parity with a goal, followed by Lewandowski's second goal that propelled Barcelona into the lead. Although Lewandowski had a chance to seal the match in injury time, he chose to shoot rather than pass to Ansu Fati, who was in a supportive position.
Yamal's exceptional performance in Raphinha's absence left coach Xavi with a positive selection dilemma as he prepares for the Brazilian's return. As the match concluded, Barcelona celebrated a pulsating victory, propelled by Yamal's emergence as a prominent figure within their ranks.
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