Barcelona secured a crucial win over Rayo Vallecano to reclaim the top spot in La Liga for the first time since December. Robert Lewandowski’s first-half penalty proved to be the difference as Barca took advantage of Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid dropping points.
The Polish striker calmly slotted home his 20th league goal of the season after VAR awarded Barcelona a controversial penalty. Rayo midfielder Pathé Ciss was penalized for a challenge on Iñigo Martínez, though the decision sparked protests from the visitors.
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Rayo thought they had equalized through Jorge de Frutos, but the goal was disallowed due to an offside interference by Randy Nteka. Barcelona missed several chances to seal the game and survived a late scare when De Frutos headed over in stoppage time.
With 51 points, Hansi Flick’s side now leads La Liga on goal difference ahead of Real Madrid, with Atletico Madrid trailing by just a point. Fourteen matches remain in the title race.
