In a thrilling La Liga encounter on Saturday, Osasuna delivered a stunning performance to defeat the league leaders Barcelona with a score of 4-2. Croatian forward Ante Budimir was the standout star, netting two crucial goals that secured the shock victory.
The action began in the 18th minute when Bryan Zaragoza, on loan from Bayern Munich, assisted Budimir for a close-range header, opening the scoring for Osasuna. Just ten minutes later, the 23-year-old extended the lead with a powerful strike off a swift counterattack, showcasing his exceptional form.
Barcelona responded in the second half, cutting the deficit to 3-1 after a rare mistake by Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera allowed Pau Victor to score with a routine shot in the 53rd minute. However, Budimir wasn't done yet. In the 72nd minute, he stepped up to convert a penalty after being fouled in the box, further solidifying Osasuna's advantage.
The home side continued to dominate, with substitute Abel Bretones adding a stunning long-range goal in the 83rd minute to make it 4-1. Barcelona managed to pull one back through Lamine Yamal in the 89th minute, but it was too late to overturn the deficit.
With this victory, Osasuna not only handed Barcelona their first defeat of the season but also sent a strong message to the rest of the league. Barcelona remains at the top of the standings with 21 points, four ahead of second-placed Real Madrid, who have a game in hand and are set to face local rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday night.
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Budimir's brace helps Osasuna stun La Liga leaders Barcelona 4-2
cgtn.com
