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

In a hard-fought La Liga match on Sunday, Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory against Osasuna, thanks to a late penalty converted by Robert Lewandowski. The penalty was awarded when Alejandro Catena fouled Lewandowski in the box and was subsequently sent off. Barcelona took the lead in the first half with a header from Jules Kounde, but Chimy Avila equalized for Osasuna with less than 15 minutes remaining.

In the second half, Barcelona’s coach Xavi made some strategic substitutions, bringing on loan signings Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix. With this win, Barcelona remained close behind league leaders Real Madrid, trailing by just two points after four games.

Xavi started 16-year-old Lamine Yamal on the right wing again, who had impressed the previous weekend and received his first call-up to the Spanish national team. However, it was Lewandowski’s crucial penalty that ultimately secured the victory for Barcelona.

Xavi commented on the match, stating that the team lacked good play and patience and needed to generate more in their attack. He praised the team’s perseverance and character in the face of a difficult opponent and expressed his satisfaction with the victory.

Barcelona had an opportunity to take the lead early on, but Lewandowski missed a shot with an open goal after Frenkie de Jong’s rebounded effort. Osasuna, known for being tough opponents at home, had their chances in the first half as well, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen making important saves to deny former Barcelona forward Jose Arnaiz and Aimar Oroz.

Barcelona took the lead just before halftime when Kounde scored with a header from Ilkay Gundogan’s corner. Despite Osasuna equalizing, Lewandowski’s penalty secured the win for Barcelona.

Xavi introduced new arrivals Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix as substitutes during the match. Cancelo came on just before the hour mark, while Felix had to wait until the final stages for his debut. Avila had equalized for Osasuna before Lewandowski’s penalty.

In stoppage time, another new Barcelona player, Inigo Martinez, made his debut as a substitute. Kounde praised the two new signings, stating that they are experienced players who will provide a boost to the team’s attacking options.

Other La Liga matches saw Girona climb to second place with a 1-0 victory against Las Palmas thanks to a late goal from Portu. Atletico Madrid’s game against Sevilla was called off due to expected torrential rain, although the rain did not arrive during the scheduled game time. Meanwhile, Real Madrid maintained their perfect start to the season with a 2-1 win over Getafe, courtesy of a late winner from Jude Bellingham.