Barcelona strengthened their grip on the LaLiga summit with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Osasuna on Saturday, thanks to a brace from Brazilian winger Raphinha. The result moves Barça seven points clear at the top of the table, while also marking their first clean sheet in six matches across all competitions.
The first goal came in the 70th minute when Pedri’s forward run set up Raphinha for a precise strike from the edge of the box. The Brazilian later sealed the win by tapping home Jules Kounde’s deflected cross at the back post in the closing minutes. Despite missing some early chances, including Ferran Torres’ off-target header and disallowed goal, Barcelona managed to grind out the victory, maintaining control throughout the match.
Osasuna threatened sporadically, with Ante Budimir testing goalkeeper Joan Garcia and Sergio Herrera keeping the side in contention early in the second half. However, Barcelona’s disciplined defense and clinical finishing ensured the three points stayed in Catalonia, extending their five-game unbeaten streak at Camp Nou.
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid returned to winning ways with a 2-1 triumph over Valencia, thanks to goals from Koke and substitute Antoine Griezmann. After a shaky start to the season and recent defeats to Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao, Diego Simeone’s side showcased resilience at the Metropolitano, pulling themselves back into contention for a top-four finish. Valencia briefly equalized after Beltran’s long-range strike, but Griezmann’s composed finish restored Atletico’s lead and secured all three points.
In other LaLiga news, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso confirmed Kylian Mbappe is fit for Sunday’s match against Alaves. Madrid are seeking to bounce back from a recent poor run that includes just two wins in their last eight games, with several players sidelined due to injury or suspension. Alonso emphasized that overcoming these challenges could strengthen the squad and help shift the team’s momentum back in their favor.
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