Lewandowski’s spot-kick secures narrow win for Barca against Osasuna

Robert Lewandowski calmly converted a late penalty to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory for Barcelona against Osasuna in La Liga on Sunday. The penalty was awarded when Alejandro Catena pulled back Lewandowski in the box, resulting in Catena’s dismissal. Barcelona took the lead in the first half through Jules Kounde’s header, but Osasuna equalized with less than 15 minutes left on the clock thanks to Chimy Avila’s strike.

In the second half, Barcelona manager Xavi introduced new loan signings Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix to try and boost the team’s attacking prowess. Despite the challenges posed by Osasuna, Barcelona managed to stay close to league leaders Real Madrid, trailing them by just two points after four games.

Xavi maintained faith in 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, starting him on the right wing once again after his impressive performance last weekend and his recent call-up to the Spanish national team.

However, it was Lewandowski’s penalty that proved decisive for Barcelona this time. Reflecting on the match, Xavi acknowledged that the team lacked some quality play and patience, but commended their perseverance and personality in securing the victory. He expressed satisfaction with the team’s attitude and praised Osasuna as a fierce opponent.

Barcelona had an opportunity to take an early lead, but Lewandowski missed the target with a wide shot after Frenkie de Jong’s effort hit the post and rebounded into his path.

Osasuna, known for their resilience at home, matched Barcelona’s performance in the first half. Marc-Andre ter Stegen made crucial saves, denying former Barcelona player Jose Arnaiz and Aimar Oroz.

Just before halftime, Barcelona managed to take the lead when Kounde rose to head the ball into the net from Ilkay Gundogan’s corner, eluding the dive of Osasuna goalkeeper Aitor Fernandez.

Xavi made substitutions throughout the match, bringing on Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix, the new signings, to bolster the team’s attacking options. Osasuna managed to equalize before Felix’s appearance, as Avila dribbled past defenders and scored past Ter Stegen.

Lewandowski, who had endured a frustrating night, turned the tide by winning and converting a penalty to restore Barcelona’s advantage. Catena’s arm pull led to his sending off after a VAR review, and Lewandowski confidently dispatched the penalty past Fernandez.

In the dying minutes of the game, center-back Inigo Martinez made his debut as a substitute. Kounde acknowledged the difficulty of winning at Osasuna’s stadium and praised the impact of Felix and Cancelo, describing them as talented players with experience at a high level.

Elsewhere in La Liga, Girona claimed a 1-0 victory over Las Palmas, thanks to Portu’s late goal. Atletico Madrid’s game against Sevilla was postponed due to anticipated heavy rain, which ultimately did not occur during the scheduled game time. Real Madrid secured a 2-1 win over Getafe on Saturday with a late winner from Jude Bellingham, maintaining their perfect start to the season.