Barcelona delivered a commanding performance against Girona, securing a 4-1 victory and reclaiming their position at the summit of La Liga. Robert Lewandowski’s brace spearheaded the Catalan giants’ triumph, propelling them three points clear of Real Madrid, who had temporarily drawn level on points the previous day.
The match, held at the Olympic Stadium, saw Barcelona display a blend of patience and clinical finishing. Lewandowski, in a personal duel with Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe for the league’s golden boot, netted two goals, extending his lead in the scoring charts. The victory also stretched Barcelona’s unbeaten streak in 2025 to an impressive 20 matches.
The scoring commenced with a Ladislav Krejci own goal towards the end of the first half, granting Barcelona an initial advantage. Girona, however, responded early in the second half through Arnaut Danjuma, briefly leveling the score. But Barcelona swiftly regained control, with Lewandowski scoring twice and Ferran Torres adding a fourth to complete the rout.
“We played with patience, we had a plan, and if we play with that plan, we can always score a lot of goals and win the game,” Lewandowski remarked after the match, highlighting the team’s strategic approach. The veteran striker, despite his advancing age, expressed his desire to continue playing at the highest level, citing his physical fitness and consistent performance.
The first half saw Barcelona dominate possession but struggle to convert their opportunities. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and the energetic Fermin Lopez posed threats, but Girona’s goalkeeper, Paulo Gazzaniga, made several crucial saves. Barcelona also felt aggrieved when a potential penalty was overturned by VAR, adding to the tension.
The breakthrough arrived just before halftime, with Krejci’s own goal providing Barcelona with a crucial lead. Girona’s equalizer early in the second half, courtesy of Danjuma, threatened to derail Barcelona’s plans. However, Lewandowski’s quickfire double, coupled with Torres’s late goal, ensured a comfortable victory for the home side.
Flick’s tactical rotation, with the upcoming Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid in mind, did not disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm. The team’s ability to score four or more goals, achieved for the 20th time this season, underscores their attacking prowess and ambition for a potential treble.
“In the first half we had the game under control but lacked the final ball, but in the second half, we played more attacking, made more chances and scored some goals, that’s the most important thing,” Lewandowski concluded, summarizing the team’s improved performance in the second half.
The victory solidifies Barcelona’s position at the top of La Liga, sending a strong message to their rivals as they pursue domestic and continental success.
