Barcelona continues its impressive run in the 2024-25 La Liga season with a decisive 4-1 victory over Girona, thanks to standout performances from young star Lamine Yamal.
In a thrilling match held on Sunday, Yamal showcased his remarkable talent by scoring two goals in less than ten minutes. The 17-year-old's first goal came in the 30th minute when he skillfully stole the ball from a defender and unleashed a close-range shot into the net. Just seven minutes later, Yamal doubled his tally by capitalizing on a loose ball inside the penalty area.
Barcelona's momentum was further boosted by Dani Olmo and Pedri, who added goals in the second half. Olmo, despite suffering a right leg injury that sidelined him for part of the game, became the first player since Cesc Fabregas in 2011 to score in his first three league appearances for the club. Pedri sealed the win with a precise strike from within the box in the 64th minute.
Girona managed to pull one back through Cristhian Stuani in the 80th minute, but Barcelona maintained control throughout the match. A controversial moment occurred just before halftime when Girona was initially awarded a penalty for a handball, only for the decision to be overturned after a video review.
The Catalan giants faced a setback in the 87th minute when Ferran Torres was sent off for a hard foul, reducing Barcelona to 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Barcelona held firm to secure their fifth consecutive win, keeping a four-point lead at the top of the table.
In a milestone moment, Robert Lewandowski marked his 100th appearance for Barcelona, adding to the significance of the match. As Barcelona looks ahead to their Champions League clash against Monaco on Thursday, Yamal expressed optimism about the team's form.
\"To help the team it's important to score the goals and to do whatever is needed,\" Yamal said. \"The first match after the international break is always complicated. Now we can start focusing on the match against Monaco.\"
Last season, Girona surprised many by finishing third and securing victories against Barcelona in both league encounters. However, this year's match demonstrated Barcelona's strengthened lineup and strategic prowess.
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Yamal scores twice in Barcelona's 4-1 La Liga win over Girona
cgtn.com
