With goals from Eric Garcia, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski, ten-man Barcelona defeated struggling Sevilla 4-1 on Sunday to move closer to the top of La Liga.
After the capital rivals drew 1-1 on Saturday, the victory moved third-place Barcelona to 48 points, one behind second-place Atletico Madrid and two behind leaders Real Madrid.
Sevilla is currently in 13th place with 28 points after losing their last three league games.
Early Goals Set the Tone
In the seventh minute, Lewandowski gave Barcelona the lead from close range, but a minute later, Ruben Vargas immediately equalised for the home team after a fast counterattack.
Two minutes after halftime, Lopez scored from the bench to give Barca the lead once more, and Raphinha added to their lead in the 55th minute with a spectacular strike from outside the box.
Red Card Drama and Barça Resilience
After Lopez was sent off for a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Djibril Sow five minutes later, the visitors were down to ten men. However, they managed to hold off Sevilla and score their fourth goal in the 89th minute thanks to a header from Eric Garcia.
Inigo Martinez: “We’re Applying Pressure”
To be considered for the title race, we must win today. Inigo Martinez, a defender for Barcelona, told DAZN, We’re applying pressure.
“We’re doing a good job. The outcome is ideal for us. We are enjoying the way we are playing and are feeling really good right now.
“Despite losing a player, we persevered and even managed to score a goal. This is the way.”
Key Moments and Controversies
Defensor Martinez headed the ball back across goal, where the Polish striker was waiting to steer it into the net, after Raphinha lifted a cross to the far post, setting up Lewandowski to score after a brief corner routine.
However, Sevilla immediately launched a swift counterattack, with Saul receiving a through ball in his stride after beating the offside trap. He then ran up the right channel and crossed to the unmarked Vargas, who tapped into the empty net.
Sevilla Penalty Appeal Denied
Both teams had chances to take the lead, but Barca’s second goal came from substitute Lopez’s towering header after Pedri’s incredible cross in the first action of the second half.
Jules Kounde’s push from behind on Djibril Sow inside the box in the 55th minute left Sevilla furious, and they demanded a penalty. However, the referee allowed play to continue because he did not think the contact was severe enough to be considered an infringement.
Raphinha Stunner and Garcia Clincher
As a result, Barca was able to counterattack quickly, and Raphinha extended the visitors’ lead with an unstoppable low drive into the corner from outside the box.
Sevilla appeared nervous and paid the price when Garcia scored to seal a victory that kept Barcelona firmly in the running for the title. Sevilla had attempted to take advantage of their man advantage.
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