Barca secured a crucial home victory against Alaves, with Lewandowski netting twice.
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| (getty images) |
Barcelona faced Alaves in La Liga Gameweek 12 at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, emerging victorious with a 2-1 win, courtesy of a brace from Robert Lewandowski.
The Catalans suffered an early setback, conceding in the first minute as Samu Omorodion nutmegged Ter Stegen, allowing Alaves to take the lead.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Robert Lewandowski! 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/pvok4cGDd7
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 12, 2023
Defensive woes seemed to have returned and it wasn't until after half-time that Barcelona started putting the pressure back on the visitors. At the 53rd minute mark, Robert Lewandowski rose to the occasion, quite literally, scoring a header from Jules Kounde's assist.
Both Lewandowski and Kounde, returning from injury, struggled to perform at their best and Kounde's defensive display left room for improvement. Pedri's return, however, was a welcome one as the 20-year-old paired up with Gundogan throughout the game to control the tempo in the middle of the park.
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| Pedri is back for the Blaugranas (image: FromTheBend) |
In the latter half of play, Ferran won a penalty for Barca and Lewandowski converted it without fail from the spot.
FULL TIME!!!!!!!!! #BarçaAlavés pic.twitter.com/tX1zEfgx2K
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 12, 2023
Barcelona now moves with three crucial points earned in front of their home crowd, sitting third on the league table. With 8 wins, 3 ties and 1 loss, the Catalans have put 13 points on the La Liga table so far.
Barcelona will face Rayo Vallecano in their next fixture, set to be an away match at Estadio de Vallecas, Madrid, on November 25.
Xavi and Co will be looking to secure another crucial win while addressing the ongoing challenges with the lineup. The pressure is on as Barcelona must strive to maintain their momentum and climb higher in the La Liga standings.
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