Barca Had Control Over Celta Vigo but Let It Slip

Barcelona’s trip to the Estadio Abanca-Balaídos looked poised to strengthen their grip atop La Liga, but a dramatic late collapse against Celta Vigo saw the match end in a 2-2 draw.

Despite early dominance, Barca left with only a single point, and questions loom about their ability to maintain consistency under pressure.

A Strong Start for Barca

Raphinha, in his usual talismanic form, opened the scoring for Barcelona in the 15th minute. Picking up Jules Koundé’s well-timed pass, he drove into the box and slotted the ball into the net. The goal marked Raphinha’s 13th of the season in all competitions, further cementing his importance to the team’s attacking force under Hansi Flick.

Barcelona carried their momentum into the second half, doubling their lead in the 61st minute when Raphinha turned provider. His pinpoint delivery found Robert Lewandowski, who calmly finished to score his 15th La Liga goal this season. At 2-0, it seemed the Catalans were in control and cruising toward another victory.

Drama Unfolds

However, the game took a sharp turn in the final 10 minutes. Marc Casado, already on a yellow card, was sent off in the 82nd minute after a reckless challenge, leaving Barcelona with 10 men. Celta Vigo seized the opportunity, launching an inspired comeback in front of their home fans.

Two minutes after Casado’s dismissal, Alfon González struck, finding the net to cut the deficit to 2-1. Just two minutes later, Hugo Álvarez completed the stunning turnaround, converting Javi Rodríguez’s assist to equalise.

Celta’s Resilience

The Sky Blues’ performance, particularly in the latter stages, was a testament to their fighting spirit. They had threatened throughout the match, including a controversial moment in the first half when Iago Aspas went down in the box under a challenge from Gerard Martin. Despite strong penalty appeals, the referee waved play on, prompting outrage from Aspas, who was booked for dissent.

Yet Celta’s determination ultimately paid off, as their late goals secured a valuable point against the league leaders.

What’s Next for Barcelona?

The result leaves Barcelona six points ahead of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga, but their rivals have a game in hand and could close the gap to just four points with a win. With the title race heating up, questions arise: can Barcelona hold their nerve under increasing pressure?

Despite their strong start, Barca’s inability to close out matches like this could prove costly in the long run. The team must address lapses in concentration and regain composure, especially as tougher fixtures loom.

Final Whistle

At full-time, Barcelona’s players walked off frustrated, knowing they had let victory slip through their fingers. While the draw may not have immediate consequences, it’s a wake-up call for Hansi Flick’s Blaugrana to stay sharp and focused in their quest for the La Liga title.

Barca had control, but in football, control doesn’t always mean victory. How will they respond?

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