He FC Barcelona took a firm step towards the title of LaLiga after beating Rayo Vallecano 1-0 on matchday 29, thanks to a decisive goal from Ronald Araújo.
The victory allows the Barça team to extend its advantage to seven points over the real Madridwho still have to play the derby against Atlético de Madrid.
A goal that is worth gold in the fight for LaLiga
The game was resolved early, but it was not easy. In the 24th minute, Araújo appeared with a powerful header after a precise cross from João Cancelo, scoring the only goal of the match.
The team led by Hansi Flick showed moments of good football at the beginning, but ended up suffering more than expected.
Fatigue takes its toll on Barcelona
The demanding European week – where Barça beat Newcastle United 7-2 in the UEFA Champions League – left its mark on the team’s physical performance.
In the final stretch, Rayo Vallecano pushed hard and came close to equalizing:
Pacha Espino missed a clear chance in the 84th minute
Jorge de Frutos forced a major intervention in ’89
Goalkeeper Joan García was key and ended up being chosen as the best player of the match.
Everything ready for a derby that can change LaLiga
The Barça victory comes at a key moment, just before the Madrid derby at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid will seek to close the gap against Atlético.
In addition, both teams are also still alive in the Champions League:
Barcelona will face Atlético in the quarterfinals
Real Madrid will face Bayern Munich
A solid Barcelona, but on the limit
Barça maintains the lead and shows the ability to win even on gray days. However, physical wear and tear and the accumulation of matches could become a decisive factor in the final stretch of the season.
Keys to the match
Goal: Ronald Araújo (24′)
Assistance: João Cancelo
MVP: Joan García
Result: Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano
