Lewandowski’s penalty sends Barcelona top of La Liga
Barcelona secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano at Montjuïc, climbing to the top of La Liga in a match overshadowed by refereeing debates.
Robert Lewandowski’s first-half penalty, awarded after a VAR review for a foul by Pathé Ciss on Iñigo Martínez, proved decisive as Rayo’s nine-match unbeaten streak came to an end.
Despite going behind, Rayo responded strongly, forcing Wojciech Szczęsny into a crucial save before halftime.
Barcelona struggled to kill the game off, with missed chances from Lewandowski and Raphinha keeping the visitors in contention.
In the dying moments, Adrián Embarba set up Jorge de Frutos for a golden opportunity, but the former Real Madrid man failed to convert.
Hansi Flick’s side will be relieved to have secured three points despite their profligacy, while Rayo, though disappointed, remain in sixth place.
Barcelona now sit level with Real Madrid on 51 points, just ahead of Atlético Madrid on the La Liga table.
