Liga leaders Barcelona extended their advantage at the top of the table with a convincing 3-1 derby victory over Espanyol on Sunday.
A sublime first-half attacking display proved decisive, as Dani Olmo’s brace and Raphinha’s clever chip secured all three points for Hansi Flick’s side.
Barcelona were unstoppable in the opening exchanges, taking the lead after just 12 minutes. Lamine Yamal’s ingenious pass with the outside of his boot found Olmo, who finished first-time past Joan Garcia.
The hosts doubled their advantage eleven minutes later, as Marc Casado’s lifted pass over the Espanyol defence found Raphinha, who showed bravery to beat Garcia to the ball and lift it over the stricken goalkeeper.
Olmo sealed the win with his second goal, and Barcelona’s third, from distance, leaving Espanyol reeling.
Despite being thoroughly dominated, Espanyol managed to pull a goal back through Javi Puado, capitalising on Barcelona’s high defensive line. The visitors had earlier seen three would-be goals ruled out for marginal offside calls.
The victory consolidates Barcelona’s position at the summit of La Liga, while Espanyol remain in pursuit of a European spot.
Image Credit: Getty
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