Barcelona delivered a statement performance in La Liga on Sunday night, cruising to a commanding 4-2 victory over Celta Vigo at Estadio Balaidos. On a rain-soaked evening, Robert Lewandowski was the undeniable star, netting a stunning hat-trick to propel the Catalan giants to within three points of league leaders Real Madrid heading into the international break.
Robert Lewandowski leads from the front
The game kicked off in electrifying fashion as both teams traded early blows. Barcelona, determined to make an early impression, found their breakthrough inside the opening ten minutes. Fermin Lopez’s long-range strike struck the arm of former Barça man Marcos Alonso, earning the visitors a penalty. Stepping up with trademark composure, Lewandowski coolly converted from the spot to make it 1-0.
However, Celta Vigo were quick to respond. Sergio Carreira surged through from midfield and finished past Wojciech Szczesny to level the score in 11th minute, reminding Barcelona that their defensive lapses could still prove costly. But the Polish striker was far from finished. In the 37th minute, Marcus Rashford — on loan from Manchester United — delivered a perfectly weighted cross that Robert Lewandowski volleyed home to restore the lead.
Celta, relentless on the counterattack, struck again before halftime. A long ball over the top found Ferran Jutgla, who teed up Borja Iglesias for a thunderous strike into the top corner, leaving Szczesny rooted as the teams went into the break after a pulsating first half.
Lamine Yamal and De Jong take control
As halftime approached, Barcelona found their rhythm once again. Rashford, instrumental on the left flank, saw his cross deflect off Ilaix Moriba before finding young sensation Lamine Yamal at the far post. The teenager made no mistake, firing home with his weaker foot to restore the lead at 3-2 just before the whistle.
In the second half, the Blaugrana settled into a dominant rhythm, marshalled by Frenkie de Jong’s calm authority in midfield. The Dutchman dictated tempo and space, ensuring Barcelona retained control. Rashford continued his inspired display, swinging in a corner that Robert Lewandowski met with a deft header to complete his hat-trick and seal the three points.
Barcelona close in on title race
Despite a late red card for De Jong, Hansi Flick’s men managed the game superbly, demonstrating both tactical discipline and attacking fluidity. With this victory, Barcelona move within striking distance of Real Madrid, reigniting the title race as the season approaches its decisive stretch.
Robert Lewandowski’s masterclass not only reaffirmed his elite finishing instincts but also reminded fans why he remains one of Europe’s most clinical forwards.