Barcelona secured a tense derby victory over Espanyol and increased their advantage at the top. Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski struck during the closing moments. The result moved Barcelona seven points clear in La Liga. The visitors controlled possession for most of the contest. Espanyol’s structure delayed any decisive breakthrough.
Relentless pressure finally finds reward
Hansi Flick watched his side probe with growing urgency. Barcelona recycled the ball and stretched the defensive lines. Espanyol stayed compact and blocked central routes. The breakthrough came four minutes from time. Fermin Lopez provided the decisive spark after his introduction. He slipped a measured pass into Dani Olmo’s path. Olmo curled an outstanding effort into the top corner.
Barcelona maintained their attacking focus after taking the lead. Lopez again drove forward with purpose. He created space down the right flank. His pass found Robert Lewandowski inside the box. Lewandowski finished with composure from close range in the 90th minute. The late goals secured full control of the derby.
Barcelona continue to dominate matches late this season. They have scored 12 goals in the final 15 minutes. No other La Liga side has reached that number. The trend reflects their fitness and belief.
Early threat and decisive goalkeeping
Espanyol began the derby with confidence and intensity. They pressed high and challenged Barcelona’s rhythm. Tyrhys Dolan tested the defense inside four minutes. A well-timed block prevented an early opener. The hosts maintained their energy through the first half.
Joan Garcia played a key role for Barcelona. The former Espanyol goalkeeper made several important saves. He left the club last summer after nine years. His reactions denied the home side on multiple occasions. Barcelona stayed level thanks to his assurance.
Marko Dmitrovic later replaced Garcia and remained alert. He produced a vital save in the 72nd minute. Eric Garcia looked certain to score from close range. The intervention kept the match balanced. A draw seemed likely before Barcelona’s late surge.
Gap grows as rivals chase
Real Madrid remain in second place and continue the pursuit. They can reduce the gap on Sunday afternoon. A home win against Real Betis would cut the deficit to four points. The pressure at the top remains intense.
Espanyol extended their long wait for a league derby win. Their last success against Barcelona came in 2009. They stay in fifth place after a disciplined display. Barcelona move on with momentum and a commanding lead.
