Polish football player Robert Lewandowski’s first-half penalty proved decisive as Barcelona secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Monday, propelling them to the top of the La Liga standings on goal difference, Al Jazeera reports.
The Catalan giants capitalized on dropped points by rivals Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid to reach 51 points, matching Real Madrid’s tally and edging one point ahead of Atlético. Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw at Osasuna on Saturday, while Atlético Madrid also drew 1-1 at home against Celta Vigo.
Barcelona’s breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Pathe Ciss brought down Inigo Martínez inside the penalty area. After a VAR review, a penalty was awarded, which Lewandowski coolly converted, sending the Rayo Vallecano goalkeeper the wrong way.
Both sides had opportunities to add to the scoreline throughout the match. Barcelona’s goalkeeper, Augusto Batalla, made a crucial save to deny a goal from Lamine Yamal, who was celebrating his 100th career appearance. Rayo Vallecano’s Jorge De Frutos found the back of the net, only to see his effort ruled out for offside.
While De Frutos posed a constant threat for Rayo, Barcelona gradually asserted control as the game progressed, extending their unbeaten run to an impressive 12 matches.
The defeat brought an end to Rayo Vallecano’s nine-game unbeaten streak, which dated back to December 7.
