A stunning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lamine-yamal" rel="dofollow">Lamine Yamal</a> strike helped crown <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona" rel="dofollow">Barcelona</a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/la-liga" rel="dofollow">La Liga</a> champions with a 2-0 win at local rivals Espanyol on Thursday, with victory ensuring Real Madrid cannot catch them at the top of the table.&nbsp;Yamal's effort and Fermin Lopez's goal took Hansi Flick's side seven points clear of Los Blancos with two matches remaining, to clinch Barcelona's 28th title and complete a superb domestic treble.
Only the Champions League escaped an exciting young Barca side this season, as they won the league for the second time in six years, at Espanyol's ground again, just as in 2023.
Back then, celebrating Barca players were chased from the field by angry home supporters, but this time, Espanyol turned on the sprinklers to soak the jubilant visitors, who headed down the tunnel quickly.
Yamal opened the scoring after 53 minutes of a tense derby clash with a brilliant curling effort, before Lopez added another in the 95th minute to secure victory.
"It's time to celebrate," said Barca coach Flick, who said he would demand even more from his team next season.
"It's in our DNA (to want to learn), it's normal, and this is what I want from the players, that they always try to get better and they have this hunger, it's crucial."
Outside the stadium before the match, several Espanyol fans were hit by a car which drove into a big crowd, although none were seriously injured, and police said it appeared to be an accident.
Barcelona were seconds away from sealing their title triumph on Wednesday, but Real Madrid snatched a 95th-minute winner against Mallorca to delay the inevitable.
Flick's side started slowly in Cornella, with Espanyol, 16th, looking dangerous on the counter-attack and keen to secure their top-flight survival.
Wojciech Szczesny made a fine save to deny Javi Puado, who broke through on goal in Espanyol's best chance of the opening period.
Barca dominated the ball but failed to create any clear opportunities themselves in the first half.
<h2><hl2>Yamal breaks through</hl2></h2>
The Catalan giants have often blown teams away this season, approaching a century of goals in La Liga, but with the title on the line and a hostile crowd against them, they needed something special to break through.
That came from 17-year-old wing wizard Yamal, who zipped inside off the right flank and unleashed a rocket into the top corner from outside the box, in a replica of his goal for Spain against France in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.
It was the teenager's eighth La Liga strike of the season, but with goals in both matches against rivals Real and also in the visit to face Atletico Madrid, he has a penchant for the big occasion.
"I don't know what to say about Lamine, he scored an amazing goal, he's had an amazing season," said Lopez.
Barca's superb display in Sunday's Clasico, in which they beat their rivals 4-3 in a thrilling battle, effectively won them the title.
They still had to get it over the line against their neighbours, though, and that became easier when Leandro Cabrera was sent off for an elbow into Yamal's stomach.
Even though they had a player fewer, Espanyol pressured Barcelona heavily until Lopez drilled past Joan Garcia to end the hosts' resistance.
Espanyol fans pelted Barcelona players with bottles as they celebrated the goal, but as the league's youngest squad wrapped up a title that most believed was unlikely at best after Kylian Mbappe's arrival at last year's champions Real, they did not care.
"On the pitch, it was clear we could not celebrate there... two years ago (there was trouble)," Flick told reporters.
"It's also about respect for the fans here, so, of course, we celebrated in the dressing room, fantastic, the players could do that, really good.
"Tomorrow I will stand a little bit in the background, and I also will enjoy it. When I see the people are happy and smiling, I will enjoy it."
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Flick's side started slowly in Cornella, with Espanyol, 16th, looking dangerous on the counter-attack and keen to secure their top-flight survival. Sports, Football

A stunning Lamine Yamal strike helped crown Barcelona La Liga champions with a 2-0 win at local rivals Espanyol on Thursday, with victory ensuring Real Madrid cannot catch them at the top of the table. Yamal's effort and Fermin Lopez's goal took Hansi Flick's side seven points clear of Los Blancos with two matches remaining, to clinch Barcelona's 28th title and complete a superb domestic treble. Only the Champions League escaped an exciting young Barca side this season, as they won the league for the second time in six years, at Espanyol's ground again, just as in 2023. Back then, celebrating Barca players were chased from the field by angry home supporters, but this time, Espanyol turned on the sprinklers to soak the jubilant visitors, who headed down the tunnel quickly. Yamal opened the scoring after 53 minutes of a tense derby clash with a brilliant curling effort, before Lopez added another in the 95th minute to secure victory. "It's time to celebrate," said Barca coach Flick, who said he would demand even more from his team next season. "It's in our DNA (to want to learn), it's normal, and this is what I want from the players, that they always try to get better and they have this hunger, it's crucial." Outside the stadium before the match, several Espanyol fans were hit by a car which drove into a big crowd, although none were seriously injured, and police said it appeared to be an accident. Barcelona were seconds away from sealing their title triumph on Wednesday, but Real Madrid snatched a 95th-minute winner against Mallorca to delay the inevitable. Flick's side started slowly in Cornella, with Espanyol, 16th, looking dangerous on the counter-attack and keen to secure their top-flight survival. Wojciech Szczesny made a fine save to deny Javi Puado, who broke through on goal in Espanyol's best chance of the opening period. Barca dominated the ball but failed to create any clear opportunities themselves in the first half. Yamal breaks through The Catalan giants have often blown teams away this season, approaching a century of goals in La Liga, but with the title on the line and a hostile crowd against them, they needed something special to break through. That came from 17-year-old wing wizard Yamal, who zipped inside off the right flank and unleashed a rocket into the top corner from outside the box, in a replica of his goal for Spain against France in the Euro 2024 semi-finals. It was the teenager's eighth La Liga strike of the season, but with goals in both matches against rivals Real and also in the visit to face Atletico Madrid, he has a penchant for the big occasion. "I don't know what to say about Lamine, he scored an amazing goal, he's had an amazing season," said Lopez. Barca's superb display in Sunday's Clasico, in which they beat their rivals 4-3 in a thrilling battle, effectively won them the title. They still had to get it over the line against their neighbours, though, and that became easier when Leandro Cabrera was sent off for an elbow into Yamal's stomach. Even though they had a player fewer, Espanyol pressured Barcelona heavily until Lopez drilled past Joan Garcia to end the hosts' resistance. Espanyol fans pelted Barcelona players with bottles as they celebrated the goal, but as the league's youngest squad wrapped up a title that most believed was unlikely at best after Kylian Mbappe's arrival at last year's champions Real, they did not care. "On the pitch, it was clear we could not celebrate there... two years ago (there was trouble)," Flick told reporters. "It's also about respect for the fans here, so, of course, we celebrated in the dressing room, fantastic, the players could do that, really good. "Tomorrow I will stand a little bit in the background, and I also will enjoy it. When I see the people are happy and smiling, I will enjoy it." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Barcelona beat Espanyol to win La Liga 2024/25, complete season with three trophies

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid" rel="dofollow">Real Madrid</a> snatched a last-gasp 2-1 win over Real Mallorca on Wednesday in La Liga to delay <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona" rel="dofollow">Barcelona</a>'s title celebrations.
Los Blancos cut the gap on the Catalan giants to four points ahead of Barcelona's visit to neighbours Espanyol on Thursday, where they can wrap up the title with a victory.
Trailing for much of the game after Martin Valjent's 11th-minute opener, two second-half goals for Madrid ensured their arch-rivals did not claim their 28th La Liga title just yet.
Madrid needed to win to deny Barca, and Kylian Mbappe's equaliser and Jacobo Ramon's 95th-minute strike allowed them to do just that.
Los Blancos' defeat by Barcelona on Sunday in the Clasico left the Catalans on the brink of the title, but Carlo Ancelotti's side showed fighting spirit in the final stages against Mallorca.
"The team played very well, it fought a lot, played with a lot of intensity, and it was a totally deserved victory," said Ancelotti.
"We are happy because we want to finish the season well, and this game didn't start well, but afterwards we did very well in all senses."
Madrid coach Ancelotti is departing to take charge of the Brazilian national team at the end of a disappointing season in the Spanish capital, and has two games left in his post.
The Italians' Madrid side, riddled with injury problems, were without Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes among other star names as Mallorca visited the Santiago Bernabeu.
"Having 12 players injured is very strange, we were able to overcome the absences with a good attitude, individually and as a group," added Ancelotti.
The islanders, ninth, are hoping for European football for the first time since 2004 and put up a strong performance.
Madrid's 18-year-old striker Endrick, whom Ancelotti may call up for Brazil in the future, came close early on but Leo Roman tipped his effort away.
Mallorca took an early lead when Valjent received the ball on the right of the box in an ocean of space.
The defender took his shot early and beat Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, making his 200th La Liga appearance.
Roman made a fine save to thwart England international Jude Bellingham as Madrid pushed for an equaliser.
The stopper, who also excelled for Mallorca in a recent narrow defeat at Barcelona, denied Mbappe and then Fede Valverde before the break.
Eventually, Mbappe found a breakthrough for Madrid after 68 minutes, with some superb footwork to escape three Mallorca players trying to shut him down, and he drilled past Roman.
It was Mbappe's 40th goal of a productive season on a personal level, although his team are set to end it without a major trophy and having been beaten four times by Barcelona across all competitions.
<h2><hl2>'Good for the academy'</hl2></h2>
Mateu Morey should have put Mallorca back ahead almost instantly after a Jacobo error, but Courtois denied him one-on-one.
Roman produced yet another fine save from Arda Guler's drive before Valjent headed Mbappe's effort off the line and to safety with the goalkeeper out of position.
It looked like, despite Madrid's efforts, they were not going to find a winner, but 20-year-old defender Jacobo lifted a dropping ball over Roman's head as the Mallorca defence hesitated.
Barcelona took 40 shots in their 1-0 win over Mallorca in April, and Madrid produced 39.
"Leo Roman had a great game," said his opposite number, Courtois.
"(Jacobo) was confident and in the end he scored that goal... it's very good for the youth academy, there are a lot of kids trying to get through.
"When they have to be there, they are, we Madrid fans have to be proud of the academy."
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Madrid cut the gap on the Catalan giants to four points ahead of Barcelona's visit to neighbours Espanyol on Thursday, where they can wrap up the title with a victory. Sports, Football

Real Madrid snatched a last-gasp 2-1 win over Real Mallorca on Wednesday in La Liga to delay Barcelona's title celebrations. Los Blancos cut the gap on the Catalan giants to four points ahead of Barcelona's visit to neighbours Espanyol on Thursday, where they can wrap up the title with a victory. Trailing for much of the game after Martin Valjent's 11th-minute opener, two second-half goals for Madrid ensured their arch-rivals did not claim their 28th La Liga title just yet. Madrid needed to win to deny Barca, and Kylian Mbappe's equaliser and Jacobo Ramon's 95th-minute strike allowed them to do just that. Los Blancos' defeat by Barcelona on Sunday in the Clasico left the Catalans on the brink of the title, but Carlo Ancelotti's side showed fighting spirit in the final stages against Mallorca. "The team played very well, it fought a lot, played with a lot of intensity, and it was a totally deserved victory," said Ancelotti. "We are happy because we want to finish the season well, and this game didn't start well, but afterwards we did very well in all senses." Madrid coach Ancelotti is departing to take charge of the Brazilian national team at the end of a disappointing season in the Spanish capital, and has two games left in his post. The Italians' Madrid side, riddled with injury problems, were without Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes among other star names as Mallorca visited the Santiago Bernabeu. "Having 12 players injured is very strange, we were able to overcome the absences with a good attitude, individually and as a group," added Ancelotti. The islanders, ninth, are hoping for European football for the first time since 2004 and put up a strong performance. Madrid's 18-year-old striker Endrick, whom Ancelotti may call up for Brazil in the future, came close early on but Leo Roman tipped his effort away. Mallorca took an early lead when Valjent received the ball on the right of the box in an ocean of space. The defender took his shot early and beat Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, making his 200th La Liga appearance. Roman made a fine save to thwart England international Jude Bellingham as Madrid pushed for an equaliser. The stopper, who also excelled for Mallorca in a recent narrow defeat at Barcelona, denied Mbappe and then Fede Valverde before the break. Eventually, Mbappe found a breakthrough for Madrid after 68 minutes, with some superb footwork to escape three Mallorca players trying to shut him down, and he drilled past Roman. It was Mbappe's 40th goal of a productive season on a personal level, although his team are set to end it without a major trophy and having been beaten four times by Barcelona across all competitions. 'Good for the academy' Mateu Morey should have put Mallorca back ahead almost instantly after a Jacobo error, but Courtois denied him one-on-one. Roman produced yet another fine save from Arda Guler's drive before Valjent headed Mbappe's effort off the line and to safety with the goalkeeper out of position. It looked like, despite Madrid's efforts, they were not going to find a winner, but 20-year-old defender Jacobo lifted a dropping ball over Roman's head as the Mallorca defence hesitated. Barcelona took 40 shots in their 1-0 win over Mallorca in April, and Madrid produced 39. "Leo Roman had a great game," said his opposite number, Courtois. "(Jacobo) was confident and in the end he scored that goal... it's very good for the youth academy, there are a lot of kids trying to get through. "When they have to be there, they are, we Madrid fans have to be proud of the academy." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Real Madrid delay Barcelona celebrations with late La Liga win over Mallorca

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona" rel="dofollow">Barcelona</a> mounted a spectacular comeback to beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid" rel="dofollow">Real Madrid</a> 4-3 in La Liga on Sunday and move to the brink of the title after overcoming a hat-trick from Kylian Mbappe.
The France striker threatened to haul Madrid back into the title race but Raphinha's double and goals from Lamine Yamal and Eric Garcia gave Barcelona a seven-point lead on the reigning champions with three matches remaining.
Hansi Flick's side were knocked out of the Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan on Tuesday and risked their season collapsing if they were beaten by Madrid, but they resisted after Mbappe's early brace.
Barcelona battled back to claim a fourth Clasico victory from four meetings this season, showing their dominance over Carlo Ancelotti's side.
"We've opened up an important gap, it was key to win this game after the Champions League (defeat), the fans have forgotten it and so have we, let's enjoy this," Yamal told Movistar.
"It was important to win today to bring the league title closer and it went very well, we're very happy."
Real Madrid are set to finish the season without a major trophy.
"We have to defend better, that is quite evident from today's game, we defended badly and that's that," said Ancelotti.
"Mbappe did well... in an attacking sense the team had clear ideas, but we could have defended better."
Madrid had made the perfect start to what is expected to be the Italian coach's final Clasico at the helm.
Mbappe earned a penalty when he was scythed down by Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, although the Catalans complained in vain the forward was offside in the build-up.
The striker beat Szczesny, who dived the right way and got his fingers to it, but could not keep it out.
In the 14th minute Mbappe doubled Madrid's advantage with a lethal finish after Vinicius Junior played him through, with Barcelona complaining again about a perceived foul on Yamal earlier in the move.
It was his 26th La Liga strike, taking him past Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski on 25 at the top of the scoring charts, and his 38th of the season across all competitions, beating Ivan Zamorano's club record of 37 in a first season with Los Blancos.
Just as they have done on so many occasions this season, Flick's spirited young Barcelona fought their way back in front with a stirring comeback.
Thibaut Courtois tipped Gerard Martin's drive over, and from the corner Garcia headed home Ferran Torres' flick-on.
Torres flicked wide from close range with an improvised effort and Fede Valverde was booked for a crunching tackle on whirlwind teenager Yamal.
Madrid could not stop the 17-year-old star from levelling with a cultured bending effort beyond Courtois after Torres laid the ball off to him in the box.
<h2><hl2>Raphinha brace</hl2></h2>
Two minutes later, Raphinha sent Barca ahead, with Pedri threading a pass through for the Brazilian winger to drill home.
Mbappe thought he had won another penalty when he fell under pressure from Frenkie de Jong but VAR revealed an offside in the build-up.
Moments later, Raphinha netted his second, picking Lucas Vazquez's pocket on the edge of the area, exchanging passes with Torres and beating Courtois.
Mbappe netted from an offside position before the break, bringing a rollercoaster first half to a close.
Yamal had a goal ruled out for offside early in the second half as Barcelona looked to put their arch-rivals to the sword.
However Vinicius got behind Barca's high line and he fed Mbappe for his hat-trick.
Barcelona appealed for a penalty when Aurelien Tchouameni blocked Torres' shot with his arm, but after watching the incident again the referee decided not to award a penalty.
Real Madrid substitute Victor Munoz might have levelled late on but fired high and wide when sent through, and Szczesny denied Mbappe, who had another strike ruled out for offside.
Barcelona thought they had wrapped up their win with a superb Fermin Lopez solo effort but it was harshly disallowed for handball against the midfielder.
Madrid had no time left to fight back though, and Barcelona, who last won the league in 2023, could seal the title as early as Wednesday, should Los Blancos stumble against Mallorca.
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Barcelona battled back to claim a fourth Clasico victory from four meetings this season, showing their dominance over Carlo Ancelotti's side. Sports, Football

Barcelona mounted a spectacular comeback to beat Real Madrid 4-3 in La Liga on Sunday and move to the brink of the title after overcoming a hat-trick from Kylian Mbappe. The France striker threatened to haul Madrid back into the title race but Raphinha's double and goals from Lamine Yamal and Eric Garcia gave Barcelona a seven-point lead on the reigning champions with three matches remaining. Hansi Flick's side were knocked out of the Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan on Tuesday and risked their season collapsing if they were beaten by Madrid, but they resisted after Mbappe's early brace. Barcelona battled back to claim a fourth Clasico victory from four meetings this season, showing their dominance over Carlo Ancelotti's side. "We've opened up an important gap, it was key to win this game after the Champions League (defeat), the fans have forgotten it and so have we, let's enjoy this," Yamal told Movistar. "It was important to win today to bring the league title closer and it went very well, we're very happy." Real Madrid are set to finish the season without a major trophy. "We have to defend better, that is quite evident from today's game, we defended badly and that's that," said Ancelotti. "Mbappe did well... in an attacking sense the team had clear ideas, but we could have defended better." Madrid had made the perfect start to what is expected to be the Italian coach's final Clasico at the helm. Mbappe earned a penalty when he was scythed down by Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, although the Catalans complained in vain the forward was offside in the build-up. The striker beat Szczesny, who dived the right way and got his fingers to it, but could not keep it out. In the 14th minute Mbappe doubled Madrid's advantage with a lethal finish after Vinicius Junior played him through, with Barcelona complaining again about a perceived foul on Yamal earlier in the move. It was his 26th La Liga strike, taking him past Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski on 25 at the top of the scoring charts, and his 38th of the season across all competitions, beating Ivan Zamorano's club record of 37 in a first season with Los Blancos. Just as they have done on so many occasions this season, Flick's spirited young Barcelona fought their way back in front with a stirring comeback. Thibaut Courtois tipped Gerard Martin's drive over, and from the corner Garcia headed home Ferran Torres' flick-on. Torres flicked wide from close range with an improvised effort and Fede Valverde was booked for a crunching tackle on whirlwind teenager Yamal. Madrid could not stop the 17-year-old star from levelling with a cultured bending effort beyond Courtois after Torres laid the ball off to him in the box. Raphinha brace Two minutes later, Raphinha sent Barca ahead, with Pedri threading a pass through for the Brazilian winger to drill home. Mbappe thought he had won another penalty when he fell under pressure from Frenkie de Jong but VAR revealed an offside in the build-up. Moments later, Raphinha netted his second, picking Lucas Vazquez's pocket on the edge of the area, exchanging passes with Torres and beating Courtois. Mbappe netted from an offside position before the break, bringing a rollercoaster first half to a close. Yamal had a goal ruled out for offside early in the second half as Barcelona looked to put their arch-rivals to the sword. However Vinicius got behind Barca's high line and he fed Mbappe for his hat-trick. Barcelona appealed for a penalty when Aurelien Tchouameni blocked Torres' shot with his arm, but after watching the incident again the referee decided not to award a penalty. Real Madrid substitute Victor Munoz might have levelled late on but fired high and wide when sent through, and Szczesny denied Mbappe, who had another strike ruled out for offside. Barcelona thought they had wrapped up their win with a superb Fermin Lopez solo effort but it was harshly disallowed for handball against the midfielder. Madrid had no time left to fight back though, and Barcelona, who last won the league in 2023, could seal the title as early as Wednesday, should Los Blancos stumble against Mallorca. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona edge Real Madrid in thriller to move to brink of La Liga title

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hansi-flick" rel="dofollow">Hansi Flick</a> called on his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona" rel="dofollow">Barcelona</a> players to brush off their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-league" rel="dofollow">Champions League</a> semi-final elimination and bounce back strongly against Real Madrid on Sunday in a vital La Liga Clasico.
Barca lead the Spanish top flight by four points ahead of rivals and defending champions Real Madrid, with four matches remaining.
The Catalans were ousted in Europe on Tuesday by Inter Milan, ending dreams of a potential quadruple.
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"We spoke about what they (the players) are thinking, what they are feeling, it's important in a group that we speak about that," Flick told a news conference Saturday.
"Everyone knows that in a Clasico you have to be on your highest level, that's what we have to do.
"We want to be active, we want to see the team (play) with intensity on the pitch, dominant as normal, and we know it's a really fantastic team from Real (against us)."
Barcelona have beaten Real Madrid in all three Clasicos played this season, beginning with a 4-0 win in La Liga at the Santiago Bernabeu in October.
The Catalans then thrashed Madrid 5-2 in the Spanish Super Cup final in January and edged them 3-2 in extra time in the Copa del Rey final in April.
Even if Barcelona lost, they would still be top of the table by a point, but Flick said his team was out to defeat Los Blancos again.
"We always go into the match to win the match, doesn't matter about the table," he added.
"(We'll) focus on this match, give everything to get three points...
"The Clasico is important for our fans, everyone, for Barca, for the players, for me, my coaching staff, it's great to play against them and compete against them."
Barcelona were handed a boost as Alejandro Balde and Marc Casado were passed fit to play on Saturday after injury.
Midfielder Casado has been missing for almost two months after a knee ligament injury, while Balde missed the last month with a hamstring problem.
Robert Lewandowski returned from injury to play as a substitute against Inter on Tuesday.
Flick said all three players were more likely to be on the bench on Sunday than to be selected as starters.
"After this match, we have three more matches," noted the coach.
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&nbsp;

FC Barcelona lead the Spanish top flight La Liga by four points ahead of rivals and defending champions Real Madrid, with four matches remaining. Sports, Football

Hansi Flick called on his Barcelona players to brush off their Champions League semi-final elimination and bounce back strongly against Real Madrid on Sunday in a vital La Liga Clasico. Barca lead the Spanish top flight by four points ahead of rivals and defending champions Real Madrid, with four matches remaining. The Catalans were ousted in Europe on Tuesday by Inter Milan, ending dreams of a potential quadruple. Also read | FIFA approves expansion of Women’s World Cup to 48 teams starting with 2031 edition "We spoke about what they (the players) are thinking, what they are feeling, it's important in a group that we speak about that," Flick told a news conference Saturday. "Everyone knows that in a Clasico you have to be on your highest level, that's what we have to do. "We want to be active, we want to see the team (play) with intensity on the pitch, dominant as normal, and we know it's a really fantastic team from Real (against us)." Barcelona have beaten Real Madrid in all three Clasicos played this season, beginning with a 4-0 win in La Liga at the Santiago Bernabeu in October. The Catalans then thrashed Madrid 5-2 in the Spanish Super Cup final in January and edged them 3-2 in extra time in the Copa del Rey final in April. Even if Barcelona lost, they would still be top of the table by a point, but Flick said his team was out to defeat Los Blancos again. "We always go into the match to win the match, doesn't matter about the table," he added. "(We'll) focus on this match, give everything to get three points... "The Clasico is important for our fans, everyone, for Barca, for the players, for me, my coaching staff, it's great to play against them and compete against them." Barcelona were handed a boost as Alejandro Balde and Marc Casado were passed fit to play on Saturday after injury. Midfielder Casado has been missing for almost two months after a knee ligament injury, while Balde missed the last month with a hamstring problem. Robert Lewandowski returned from injury to play as a substitute against Inter on Tuesday. Flick said all three players were more likely to be on the bench on Sunday than to be selected as starters. "After this match, we have three more matches," noted the coach. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Hansi Flick wants 'dominant' Barcelona in vital La Liga Clasico

Arda Guler struck the only goal as Real Madrid won 1-0 at Getafe on Wednesday to claw back to within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
The young Turkey international fired in from outside the area midway through the first half as Carlo Ancelotti's side stayed in title contention after Barcelona won by the same scoreline at Mallorca on Tuesday.
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Arch-rivals Madrid and Barcelona will meet in the Copa del Rey final in Seville on Saturday, with Kylian Mbappe poised to return from injury for the weekend Clasico -- one of two remaining this season. The clubs are also due to meet in the league on May 11.
However, the win over Getafe may have come at a cost to Madrid with David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga both forced off.
"We'll see what they have tomorrow, but I think they're both suffering from muscle soreness. It will certainly be difficult for them to be available on Saturday (to play Barcelona)," said Ancelotti.
In Mbappe's absence on the outskirts of Madrid, 18-year-old Brazilian striker Endrick made his first league start as England international Jude Bellingham dropped to the bench.&nbsp;
Left-back Fran Garcia twice went close for Madrid, his initial effort palmed away by David Soria before he blasted the rebound high and wide.
It wasn't long before Guler broke the deadlock after Brahim Diaz looked to have wasted the chance.
Madrid worked the ball back out to Guler, whose powerful 20-yard drive flashed past Soria despite the Getafe goalkeeper getting a hand to it.
Endrick thought he had scored only his second La Liga goal after being put through by Vinicius Junior, but Soria took the sting out of his shot and Djene cleared off the line.
<h2>Courtois preserves win</h2>
Getafe created opportunities of their own, the best of which fell in the second half to an unmarked Mauro Arambarri who dragged wide with only Thibaut Courtois to beat.
Courtois came to Madrid's rescue in stoppage time as he smothered inside his six-yard box after Peter and Juanmi tried to force the ball home from close range.
Getafe substitute Alvaro Rodriguez, who is on loan from Madrid, nearly snatched an equaliser at the death but saw his low shot beaten away by Courtois.
Inaki Williams fired Athletic Bilbao to a 1-0 home win over Las Palmas earlier on Wednesday to strengthen their chances of direct qualification for next season's Champions League.
The Basque side sit fourth with five games to go, eight points clear of fifth-placed Villarreal who suffered a 3-0 defeat at Celta Vigo.
Bilbao also have a Europa League semi-final against Manchester United to come, and should they win that they will play the final in their home stadium.
Five La Liga sides qualify for the Champions League this season. Sixth-placed Betis are a point behind Villarreal ahead of their encounter with rock-bottom Valladolid on Thursday.
A fifth-minute goal from the elder Williams brother after he turned a defender in the box and side-footed home with the outside of his boot was enough for all three points.
Bilbao needed two sharp saves from Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon before half-time as relegation-threatened Las Palmas went down fighting.
Alaves climbed out of the bottom three at the expense of Las Palmas with a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad.
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Guler struck the only goal as Real Madrid won 1-0 at Getafe on Wednesday to claw back to within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona. Football sports world

Arda Guler struck the only goal as Real Madrid won 1-0 at Getafe on Wednesday to claw back to within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona. The young Turkey international fired in from outside the area midway through the first half as Carlo Ancelotti's side stayed in title contention after Barcelona won by the same scoreline at Mallorca on Tuesday. Also Read - Pahalgam terror attack: Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem declines Neeraj Chopra's invite to compete in India-Reports Arch-rivals Madrid and Barcelona will meet in the Copa del Rey final in Seville on Saturday, with Kylian Mbappe poised to return from injury for the weekend Clasico -- one of two remaining this season. The clubs are also due to meet in the league on May 11. However, the win over Getafe may have come at a cost to Madrid with David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga both forced off. "We'll see what they have tomorrow, but I think they're both suffering from muscle soreness. It will certainly be difficult for them to be available on Saturday (to play Barcelona)," said Ancelotti. In Mbappe's absence on the outskirts of Madrid, 18-year-old Brazilian striker Endrick made his first league start as England international Jude Bellingham dropped to the bench. Left-back Fran Garcia twice went close for Madrid, his initial effort palmed away by David Soria before he blasted the rebound high and wide. It wasn't long before Guler broke the deadlock after Brahim Diaz looked to have wasted the chance. Madrid worked the ball back out to Guler, whose powerful 20-yard drive flashed past Soria despite the Getafe goalkeeper getting a hand to it. Endrick thought he had scored only his second La Liga goal after being put through by Vinicius Junior, but Soria took the sting out of his shot and Djene cleared off the line. Courtois preserves win Getafe created opportunities of their own, the best of which fell in the second half to an unmarked Mauro Arambarri who dragged wide with only Thibaut Courtois to beat. Courtois came to Madrid's rescue in stoppage time as he smothered inside his six-yard box after Peter and Juanmi tried to force the ball home from close range. Getafe substitute Alvaro Rodriguez, who is on loan from Madrid, nearly snatched an equaliser at the death but saw his low shot beaten away by Courtois. Inaki Williams fired Athletic Bilbao to a 1-0 home win over Las Palmas earlier on Wednesday to strengthen their chances of direct qualification for next season's Champions League. The Basque side sit fourth with five games to go, eight points clear of fifth-placed Villarreal who suffered a 3-0 defeat at Celta Vigo. Bilbao also have a Europa League semi-final against Manchester United to come, and should they win that they will play the final in their home stadium. Five La Liga sides qualify for the Champions League this season. Sixth-placed Betis are a point behind Villarreal ahead of their encounter with rock-bottom Valladolid on Thursday. A fifth-minute goal from the elder Williams brother after he turned a defender in the box and side-footed home with the outside of his boot was enough for all three points. Bilbao needed two sharp saves from Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon before half-time as relegation-threatened Las Palmas went down fighting. Alaves climbed out of the bottom three at the expense of Las Palmas with a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Arda Guler keep La Liga title hopes alive for Real Madrid

Real Madrid players observed a minute's silence before training on Monday as tributes poured in from across La Liga after the death of football-mad Pope Francis at 88.<o:p></o:p>
"Real Madrid wishes to express its condolences to the whole Catholic community in the face of the loss of a historic and universal figure," the club said in a statement. "During his papacy, marked by the scale of his great legacy, Pope Francis represented an enormous spirit of solidarity and support for the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people."<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-federico-valverde-stunner-saves-real-madrid-la-liga-title-hopes-against-athletic-bilbao-barcelona-8984800" rel="dofollow">Valverde's injury-time stunner against Bilbao helps Real Madrid cut gap with Liga leaders Barcelona</a> 
The reigning Spanish and European champions posted a picture of the squad and coaching staff standing in a circle at the club training ground to hold a minute's silence.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were also among a slew of top-flight clubs joining La Liga in expressing their condolences for Francis.<o:p></o:p>
The Argentine pope was a passionate follower of the Buenos Aires club San Lorenzo and viewed football as a vehicle to educate and spread peace, receiving legends including Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.<o:p></o:p>
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Real Madrid posted a picture of the squad and coaching staff standing in a circle at the club training ground to hold a minute's silence. Sports, Football

Real Madrid players observed a minute's silence before training on Monday as tributes poured in from across La Liga after the death of football-mad Pope Francis at 88. "Real Madrid wishes to express its condolences to the whole Catholic community in the face of the loss of a historic and universal figure," the club said in a statement. "During his papacy, marked by the scale of his great legacy, Pope Francis represented an enormous spirit of solidarity and support for the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people." Also read | Valverde's injury-time stunner against Bilbao helps Real Madrid cut gap with Liga leaders Barcelona The reigning Spanish and European champions posted a picture of the squad and coaching staff standing in a circle at the club training ground to hold a minute's silence. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were also among a slew of top-flight clubs joining La Liga in expressing their condolences for Francis. The Argentine pope was a passionate follower of the Buenos Aires club San Lorenzo and viewed football as a vehicle to educate and spread peace, receiving legends including Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Real Madrid players observe a minute silence for Pope Francis at training

Federico Valverde's superb 93rd-minute strike kept Real Madrid on Barcelona's tail in the Spanish title race, earning the champions a 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Madrid stayed four points behind Barca after Valverde smashed into the top corner with a sliced, swerving effort.<o:p></o:p>
After the Champions League elimination by Arsenal, it looked like Madrid were set for another devastating result until the Uruguay international's stoppage-time intervention.<o:p></o:p>
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"Fede has such a good shot... in training yesterday he shot a ball that looked like it was going out and then it picked up a curl like that and you go 'how do you shoot like that?'" said Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.<o:p></o:p>
"In training, he does that once or twice a week."<o:p></o:p>
Athletic Bilbao, who reached the Europa League semi-finals on Thursday by beating Rangers, rotated heavily.<o:p></o:p>
Despite that, the Basque side proved a hard nut for Madrid to crack, especially with their top goalscorer Kylian Mbappe both suspended and recovering from an ankle problem.<o:p></o:p>
The forward was whistled by some fans for his failure to help the team overcome Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals in midweek when he was shown watching the game on the stadium screens.<o:p></o:p>
"Valverde was key in this game because he scored the goal," said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. "The team was good, a bit slower in the first half but very good in the second.<o:p></o:p>
"We wanted to win, we wanted to react after the elimination against Arsenal -- the team came through and Fede was the key player."<o:p></o:p>
Vinicius, who was previously criticised by Ancelotti for lack of defensive work ethic, was running hard on the left, which fans at the Santiago Bernabeu appreciated.<o:p></o:p>
The Brazilian has struggled for form at times this season but was Madrid's brightest player against Athletic, giving Unai Nunez a difficult night.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid played with intensity after their European elimination, trying to keep La Liga in their sights after Barcelona made a late comeback to beat Celta Vigo on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
Rodrygo Goes came close early in the second half before Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon saved from Eduardo Camavinga.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts began to push Athletic deeper and started to create better chances.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Madrid turn screw<o:p></o:p></h2>
Vinicius bent a delicious cross with the outside of his boot into the six-yard box for Jude Bellingham to meet, but Simon made an excellent save to tip over his header.<o:p></o:p>
Fede Valverde fired narrowly wide of the near post, and Vinicius did find the net, but Endrick was offside in the build-up.<o:p></o:p>
Bellingham appealed for a penalty after going down softly in the area and then fired over from close range in the final stages.<o:p></o:p>
It was the kind of chance the England international managed to turn into late match-winning goals last season as he inspired Madrid to La Liga and Champions League glory.<o:p></o:p>
Instead, it was Valverde who took up that role with his sublime blast, which left Simon with no chance.<o:p></o:p>
"Valverde has an extraordinary shot," said Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde. "We had a really good game (but) they are individually very good, Vinicius was very good."<o:p></o:p>
Madrid's victory offers them hope of salvaging their season and a morale boost ahead of next weekend's Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
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After the UCL elimination, it looked like Madrid were set for another devastating result until the Uruguay international's stoppage-time intervention. Sports, Football

Federico Valverde's superb 93rd-minute strike kept Real Madrid on Barcelona's tail in the Spanish title race, earning the champions a 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Madrid stayed four points behind Barca after Valverde smashed into the top corner with a sliced, swerving effort. After the Champions League elimination by Arsenal, it looked like Madrid were set for another devastating result until the Uruguay international's stoppage-time intervention. Also read | Leicester City relegated as Liverpool inch closer to Premier League title "Fede has such a good shot... in training yesterday he shot a ball that looked like it was going out and then it picked up a curl like that and you go 'how do you shoot like that?'" said Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. "In training, he does that once or twice a week." Athletic Bilbao, who reached the Europa League semi-finals on Thursday by beating Rangers, rotated heavily. Despite that, the Basque side proved a hard nut for Madrid to crack, especially with their top goalscorer Kylian Mbappe both suspended and recovering from an ankle problem. The forward was whistled by some fans for his failure to help the team overcome Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals in midweek when he was shown watching the game on the stadium screens. "Valverde was key in this game because he scored the goal," said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. "The team was good, a bit slower in the first half but very good in the second. "We wanted to win, we wanted to react after the elimination against Arsenal -- the team came through and Fede was the key player." Vinicius, who was previously criticised by Ancelotti for lack of defensive work ethic, was running hard on the left, which fans at the Santiago Bernabeu appreciated. The Brazilian has struggled for form at times this season but was Madrid's brightest player against Athletic, giving Unai Nunez a difficult night. Madrid played with intensity after their European elimination, trying to keep La Liga in their sights after Barcelona made a late comeback to beat Celta Vigo on Saturday. Rodrygo Goes came close early in the second half before Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon saved from Eduardo Camavinga. The hosts began to push Athletic deeper and started to create better chances. Madrid turn screw Vinicius bent a delicious cross with the outside of his boot into the six-yard box for Jude Bellingham to meet, but Simon made an excellent save to tip over his header. Fede Valverde fired narrowly wide of the near post, and Vinicius did find the net, but Endrick was offside in the build-up. Bellingham appealed for a penalty after going down softly in the area and then fired over from close range in the final stages. It was the kind of chance the England international managed to turn into late match-winning goals last season as he inspired Madrid to La Liga and Champions League glory. Instead, it was Valverde who took up that role with his sublime blast, which left Simon with no chance. "Valverde has an extraordinary shot," said Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde. "We had a really good game (but) they are individually very good, Vinicius was very good." Madrid's victory offers them hope of salvaging their season and a morale boost ahead of next weekend's Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Valverde's injury-time stunner against Bilbao helps Real Madrid cut gap with Liga leaders Barcelona

Barcelona pulled off a stunning comeback from two goals down to beat Celta Vigo 4-3 on Saturday and move seven points clear of Real Madrid in the La Liga title race. The Catalans trailed 3-1 inside the final half-hour after a Borja Iglesias hat-trick for the visitors but Dani Olmo scored and then Raphinha struck twice, including a 98th minute penalty, to snatch three essential points for the leaders.<o:p></o:p>
Champions Real Madrid, second, host Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, with a Clasico showdown still to come in May.<o:p></o:p>
"This attitude, this mentality of not giving up, is really great to see... we tried everything to get the three points and we did it," Barcelona coach Hansi Flick told reporters.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/nba-miami-heat-and-memphis-grizzlies-take-final-spots-in-playoffs-8979500" rel="dofollow">NBA: Miami Heat and Memphis Grizzlies take final spots in playoffs</a>
However, Flick said striker Robert Lewandowski needed tests after coming off with an apparent hamstring problem, making him a doubt for the Copa del Rey final next weekend against rivals Real Madrid.<o:p></o:p>
"From my experience we wait until tomorrow (and the tests)," said Flick, who did not want to rule out the club's top scorer too quickly.<o:p></o:p>
The coach, who railed against his team's intense schedule on Friday, rested teenage star Lamine Yamal for the first time in 2025, although he was later needed from the bench after Iglesias' treble.<o:p></o:p>
The Catalans took the lead after 12 minutes when Ferran Torres, starting in place of the 17-year-old, strolled into space and with the defence standing off, drilled past Vicente Guaita from the edge of the box.<o:p></o:p>
Celta Vigo swiftly hit back, skewering Barcelona's high defensive line three minutes later.<o:p></o:p>
Pablo Duran escaped on the right with the defence stranded and his cross was turned home by Iglesias into an empty net, after goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny dived fruitlessly to try to intercept the ball.<o:p></o:p>
Celta, seventh in La Liga and in contention for European football next season, were finding plenty of joy going forward.<o:p></o:p>
Claudio Giraldez's team took the lead early in the second half after a mistake by Frenkie de Jong, who ceded possession sloppily in a dangerous area, allowing Iglesias to find an angle and drive a low effort beyond the reach of Szczesny.<o:p></o:p>
With Barcelona on the attack Celta hit them again with Sergio Carreira playing Iglesias into an ocean of space behind the high line. The striker galloped through and beat the retreating Szczesny with ease.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Riveting comeback<o:p></o:p></h2>
Inspired by substitutes Yamal and Olmo, Barcelona battled back, showing the attacking verve, their rivals Real Madrid lacked in midweek as they sought their own comeback against Arsenal in the Champions League. <o:p></o:p>
Raphinha nudged a pass through for Olmo to beat Guaita and rouse the Olympic stadium crowd from its stupor.<o:p></o:p>
Four minutes later the Brazilian winger scored himself, heading home as Yamal crossed into the danger area from the right flank.<o:p></o:p>
Former Barcelona defender Oscar Mingueza could have struck for Celta Vigo in the 90th minute but headed wide from point-blank range.<o:p></o:p>
Eventually Barcelona were awarded a penalty deep in injury time after a VAR review when Olmo was clumsily clattered from behind by Yoel Lago.<o:p></o:p>
With Lewandowski replaced in the final stages, Raphinha took responsibility and hammered into the top-right corner to earn his team a dramatic and potentially vital victory.<o:p></o:p>
"This is football, we really wanted to win, maybe we weren't at our best (earlier in the game) but the response from the team, and the fans pushed us on... we deserved it," Olmo told DAZN. "These are three points that take us closer to our objective, they're important and we have to continue."<o:p></o:p>
Celta were left with nothing to show for their efforts.<o:p></o:p>
"It's a bittersweet feeling... we scored three, which few teams can do (here), but it feels bad," said Celta's Duran.<o:p></o:p>
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Flick said Lewandowski needed tests after coming off with an apparent hamstring problem, making him a doubt for the Copa del Rey final against Madrid. Sports, Football

Barcelona pulled off a stunning comeback from two goals down to beat Celta Vigo 4-3 on Saturday and move seven points clear of Real Madrid in the La Liga title race. The Catalans trailed 3-1 inside the final half-hour after a Borja Iglesias hat-trick for the visitors but Dani Olmo scored and then Raphinha struck twice, including a 98th minute penalty, to snatch three essential points for the leaders. Champions Real Madrid, second, host Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, with a Clasico showdown still to come in May. "This attitude, this mentality of not giving up, is really great to see... we tried everything to get the three points and we did it," Barcelona coach Hansi Flick told reporters. Also read | NBA: Miami Heat and Memphis Grizzlies take final spots in playoffs However, Flick said striker Robert Lewandowski needed tests after coming off with an apparent hamstring problem, making him a doubt for the Copa del Rey final next weekend against rivals Real Madrid. "From my experience we wait until tomorrow (and the tests)," said Flick, who did not want to rule out the club's top scorer too quickly. The coach, who railed against his team's intense schedule on Friday, rested teenage star Lamine Yamal for the first time in 2025, although he was later needed from the bench after Iglesias' treble. The Catalans took the lead after 12 minutes when Ferran Torres, starting in place of the 17-year-old, strolled into space and with the defence standing off, drilled past Vicente Guaita from the edge of the box. Celta Vigo swiftly hit back, skewering Barcelona's high defensive line three minutes later. Pablo Duran escaped on the right with the defence stranded and his cross was turned home by Iglesias into an empty net, after goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny dived fruitlessly to try to intercept the ball. Celta, seventh in La Liga and in contention for European football next season, were finding plenty of joy going forward. Claudio Giraldez's team took the lead early in the second half after a mistake by Frenkie de Jong, who ceded possession sloppily in a dangerous area, allowing Iglesias to find an angle and drive a low effort beyond the reach of Szczesny. With Barcelona on the attack Celta hit them again with Sergio Carreira playing Iglesias into an ocean of space behind the high line. The striker galloped through and beat the retreating Szczesny with ease. Riveting comeback Inspired by substitutes Yamal and Olmo, Barcelona battled back, showing the attacking verve, their rivals Real Madrid lacked in midweek as they sought their own comeback against Arsenal in the Champions League. Raphinha nudged a pass through for Olmo to beat Guaita and rouse the Olympic stadium crowd from its stupor. Four minutes later the Brazilian winger scored himself, heading home as Yamal crossed into the danger area from the right flank. Former Barcelona defender Oscar Mingueza could have struck for Celta Vigo in the 90th minute but headed wide from point-blank range. Eventually Barcelona were awarded a penalty deep in injury time after a VAR review when Olmo was clumsily clattered from behind by Yoel Lago. With Lewandowski replaced in the final stages, Raphinha took responsibility and hammered into the top-right corner to earn his team a dramatic and potentially vital victory. "This is football, we really wanted to win, maybe we weren't at our best (earlier in the game) but the response from the team, and the fans pushed us on... we deserved it," Olmo told DAZN. "These are three points that take us closer to our objective, they're important and we have to continue." Celta were left with nothing to show for their efforts. "It's a bittersweet feeling... we scored three, which few teams can do (here), but it feels bad," said Celta's Duran. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona close in on La Liga title after stunning comeback win over Celta Vigo

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona" rel="dofollow">Barcelona</a> coach Hansi Flick on Friday demanded to meet with La Liga officials over what he called a "joke" schedule, saying Spanish football was failing to take care of players.
<o:p></o:p>The Catalan giants' La Liga game at Real Valladolid on Saturday, May 3, will kick off at 9:00 pm (1900 GMT) after being moved from an afternoon start on Sunday, May 4. That rescheduling still gives them less than three days to prepare for the pivotal Champions League semi-final return leg at Inter Milan on May 6.<o:p></o:p>
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"I want to see this guy who's responsible for that. For me, it's a joke," Flick told a news conference on Friday.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>"It's unbelievable and we have no time to rest... the guys who are responsible for that, I want to discuss with them, because they have no idea how it is."<o:p></o:p>
The Champions League is one of three tournaments Barcelona are competing in, exacerbating challenges relating to fixture congestion that Flick is familiar with after a trophy-laden spell at Bayern Munich.<o:p></o:p>
But the German manager said the situation facing his team before a huge European match left him "speechless".<o:p></o:p>
"I never had this before. Every league protects their clubs when they play in the Champions League, especially in the semi-final," he said.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>"Bundesliga, Premier League, take care about the clubs. But here not. It's just let them play."<o:p></o:p>
Flick was speaking before Barcelona hosted Celta Vigo on Saturday, with the chance to extend their lead over Real Madrid to seven points at the top of La Liga.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona are also looking to bounce back after a 3-1 loss at Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday handed them their first defeat of 2025, although the Blaugrana progressed to the semi-finals 5-3 on aggregate.
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Barcelona's next Liga game on May 3 gives them less than three days to prepare for the pivotal Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan on May 6. Sports, Football

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick on Friday demanded to meet with La Liga officials over what he called a "joke" schedule, saying Spanish football was failing to take care of players. The Catalan giants' La Liga game at Real Valladolid on Saturday, May 3, will kick off at 9:00 pm (1900 GMT) after being moved from an afternoon start on Sunday, May 4. That rescheduling still gives them less than three days to prepare for the pivotal Champions League semi-final return leg at Inter Milan on May 6. Also read | Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso shrugs future talks amid Real Madrid links "I want to see this guy who's responsible for that. For me, it's a joke," Flick told a news conference on Friday. "It's unbelievable and we have no time to rest... the guys who are responsible for that, I want to discuss with them, because they have no idea how it is." The Champions League is one of three tournaments Barcelona are competing in, exacerbating challenges relating to fixture congestion that Flick is familiar with after a trophy-laden spell at Bayern Munich. But the German manager said the situation facing his team before a huge European match left him "speechless". "I never had this before. Every league protects their clubs when they play in the Champions League, especially in the semi-final," he said. "Bundesliga, Premier League, take care about the clubs. But here not. It's just let them play." Flick was speaking before Barcelona hosted Celta Vigo on Saturday, with the chance to extend their lead over Real Madrid to seven points at the top of La Liga. Barcelona are also looking to bounce back after a 3-1 loss at Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday handed them their first defeat of 2025, although the Blaugrana progressed to the semi-finals 5-3 on aggregate. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Barcelona’s Hansi Flick seeks answers from Spanish Football over ‘joke’ La Liga schedule

Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe was sent off for an ugly lunge but his side still beat Alaves 1-0 on Sunday to stay four points behind Barcelona at the top of La Liga.&nbsp;Mbappe's dismissal put his team-mates under pressure but Alaves were also reduced to 10 players in the second half when Manu Sanchez hacked down Vinicius Junior.
Eduardo Camavinga's first-half curling effort from the edge of the box was enough to split the teams as Madrid produced a gritty display to match Barcelona's single-goal victory over Leganes on Saturday.
"It was a hard game, tricky at first because of how intense our opponents were, and then after Kylian's red card the team pulled together," Real Madrid's Dani Ceballos told his club's television channel.
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Assistant coach Davide Ancelotti took the place of his father Carlo Ancelotti, who was suspended, in the Madrid dug-out.
"The win gives us confidence, we knew it wouldn't be easy and what happened in the game didn't make it easy," said Davide Ancelotti after the match.
"I haven't spoken with (Mbappe) after the game, he's not a violent guy and he said sorry, he realised the error he made, it's clearly a red card and he paid the price.
"I'm not justifying it, but it happened after he was fouled several times in a row."
Los Blancos began with Vinicius on the bench, with the Brazilian's inconsistent form and the upcoming Champions League battle against Arsenal in mind.
Carlo Ancelotti had called for his team to defend better after conceding 11 goals in the last four games, including the painful 3-0 quarter-final first-leg defeat to the Gunners on Tuesday.
That call may have fed into Mbappe's wild foul on Antonio Blanco which caused the striker's dismissal.
By then Madrid had taken the lead in a hotly-contested clash at Alaves' Mendizorroza stadium.
The visitors appealed for a penalty early on when Arda Guler and goalkeeper Jesus Owono collided.
Raul Asencio's header hit Joan Jordan and bounced in but the goal was ruled out for an Antonio Rudiger foul on Owono.
Eventually, Camavinga curled home from the edge of the box after being teed up by Fede Valverde to send the Spanish champions ahead on 34 minutes.
Mbappe's red card four minutes later was a set-back for Madrid, who came under pressure in the second half.
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Kylian Mbappe's dismissal put his team-mates under pressure but Alaves were also reduced to 10 players in the second half. World, Sports, Football

Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe was sent off for an ugly lunge but his side still beat Alaves 1-0 on Sunday to stay four points behind Barcelona at the top of La Liga. Mbappe's dismissal put his team-mates under pressure but Alaves were also reduced to 10 players in the second half when Manu Sanchez hacked down Vinicius Junior. Eduardo Camavinga's first-half curling effort from the edge of the box was enough to split the teams as Madrid produced a gritty display to match Barcelona's single-goal victory over Leganes on Saturday. "It was a hard game, tricky at first because of how intense our opponents were, and then after Kylian's red card the team pulled together," Real Madrid's Dani Ceballos told his club's television channel. Also read | Golf: Rory McIlroy completes career Grand Slam with tearful Masters win Assistant coach Davide Ancelotti took the place of his father Carlo Ancelotti, who was suspended, in the Madrid dug-out. "The win gives us confidence, we knew it wouldn't be easy and what happened in the game didn't make it easy," said Davide Ancelotti after the match. "I haven't spoken with (Mbappe) after the game, he's not a violent guy and he said sorry, he realised the error he made, it's clearly a red card and he paid the price. "I'm not justifying it, but it happened after he was fouled several times in a row." Los Blancos began with Vinicius on the bench, with the Brazilian's inconsistent form and the upcoming Champions League battle against Arsenal in mind. Carlo Ancelotti had called for his team to defend better after conceding 11 goals in the last four games, including the painful 3-0 quarter-final first-leg defeat to the Gunners on Tuesday. That call may have fed into Mbappe's wild foul on Antonio Blanco which caused the striker's dismissal. By then Madrid had taken the lead in a hotly-contested clash at Alaves' Mendizorroza stadium. The visitors appealed for a penalty early on when Arda Guler and goalkeeper Jesus Owono collided. Raul Asencio's header hit Joan Jordan and bounced in but the goal was ruled out for an Antonio Rudiger foul on Owono. Eventually, Camavinga curled home from the edge of the box after being teed up by Fede Valverde to send the Spanish champions ahead on 34 minutes. Mbappe's red card four minutes later was a set-back for Madrid, who came under pressure in the second half. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kylian Mbappe receives first La Liga red card in Real Madrid’s win over Alaves

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fc-barcelona" rel="dofollow">Barcelona</a> needed a Jorge Saenz own goal to edge Leganes 1-0 and move seven points clear of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid" rel="dofollow">Real Madrid</a> at the top of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/la-liga" rel="dofollow">La Liga</a> on Saturday. Second-placed champions Madrid face Alaves on Sunday and have to play catch-up after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hansi-flick" rel="dofollow">Hansi Flick</a>'s side scraped their way to a narrow but vital win on the road.&nbsp;
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The Catalan giants are fighting for a potential quadruple this season and took another small step towards the league title at&nbsp;Butarque stadium.&nbsp;
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"The fight and the mentality the team showed today was great," said Flick, whose side beat Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in the Champions League&nbsp;quarter-finals on Wednesday.&nbsp;
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"(Madrid) have a match tomorrow but we're only looking at ourselves, three points is&nbsp;good and we had a great week."&nbsp;
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Despite Barca's display lacking the style and danger in front of&nbsp;goal they have shown for much of the season, the players celebrated vehemently at the end.&nbsp;
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"In the end what is important in these games are three points," Barca defender Eric Garcia told DAZN. "I think this is the type of game where the league is won... we're top of the table, which is where we want to be, and today we could extend that distance a bit."&nbsp;
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Barcelona lost 1-0 at home against Leganes in December during a slump which they have turned around in 2025, now 24 consecutive matches unbeaten since the turn of the year.&nbsp;
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The Madrid minnows set up to frustrate as they did in the first meeting, slowing the game with tactical fouls and the occasional spot of time-wasting.&nbsp;
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Despite Flick selecting a strong side Barcelona found it hard to create danger and the hosts had the best chance of an ugly first half.&nbsp;
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Dani Raba broke free down the left, with Inigo Martinez struggling to keep up, and he teed up Adria Altimira.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny made a fine save to thwart the Spaniard, whose shot was too close to the Polish veteran.&nbsp;
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At the other end a deflected Jules Kounde effort was batted out by Marko Dmitrovic, who was not tested further in the first half.&nbsp;
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Raba lashed a shot narrowly off target for Borja Jimenez's side and Barcelona took off defender Alejandro Balde before the break as he appeared to suffer a muscular injury.&nbsp;
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"Balde is not so good... (but) I will say&nbsp;nothing and we will wait until tomorrow," said Flick.&nbsp;
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The Catalan giants are fighting for a potential quadruple this season and took another small step towards the league title at Butarque stadium. . World, Sports, Football

Barcelona needed a Jorge Saenz own goal to edge Leganes 1-0 and move seven points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga on Saturday. Second-placed champions Madrid face Alaves on Sunday and have to play catch-up after Hansi Flick's side scraped their way to a narrow but vital win on the road. The Catalan giants are fighting for a potential quadruple this season and took another small step towards the league title at Butarque stadium. "The fight and the mentality the team showed today was great," said Flick, whose side beat Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday. "(Madrid) have a match tomorrow but we're only looking at ourselves, three points is good and we had a great week." Despite Barca's display lacking the style and danger in front of goal they have shown for much of the season, the players celebrated vehemently at the end. "In the end what is important in these games are three points," Barca defender Eric Garcia told DAZN. "I think this is the type of game where the league is won... we're top of the table, which is where we want to be, and today we could extend that distance a bit." Barcelona lost 1-0 at home against Leganes in December during a slump which they have turned around in 2025, now 24 consecutive matches unbeaten since the turn of the year. The Madrid minnows set up to frustrate as they did in the first meeting, slowing the game with tactical fouls and the occasional spot of time-wasting. Despite Flick selecting a strong side Barcelona found it hard to create danger and the hosts had the best chance of an ugly first half. Dani Raba broke free down the left, with Inigo Martinez struggling to keep up, and he teed up Adria Altimira. Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny made a fine save to thwart the Spaniard, whose shot was too close to the Polish veteran. At the other end a deflected Jules Kounde effort was batted out by Marko Dmitrovic, who was not tested further in the first half. Raba lashed a shot narrowly off target for Borja Jimenez's side and Barcelona took off defender Alejandro Balde before the break as he appeared to suffer a muscular injury. "Balde is not so good... (but) I will say nothing and we will wait until tomorrow," said Flick. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Barcelona inch closer to La Liga title with seven-point gap at top after Leganes win

Barcelona failed to break down a frantic&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Betis defence as they were held to a 1-1 draw in La Liga on Saturday but still gained ground on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid">Real&nbsp;Madrid</a>&nbsp;who earlier conceded deep into added time to lose 2-1 at home to Valencia.
Barcelona moved four points ahead of&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;atop La Liga. Both teams face Champions League first-leg ties this week,&nbsp;Real&nbsp;visit Arsenal on Tuesday and Barcelona play in Dortmund the following evening.
Barcelona cut open Betis in the seventh minute and Gavi slid the ball past goalkeeper Adrian from inside the six-yard box.&nbsp;But the hosts were unable to turn a series of lively attacks into goals. Instead the visitors hit back after 16 minutes when centreback Natan Souza escaped the clutches of his defender to head home a Giovani Lo Celso corner.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/srh-vs-gt-dream11-prediction-fantasy-team-for-this-match-captain-and-vice-captain-choices-updates-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-gujarat-titans-8930891">SRH vs GT Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for SunRisers Hyderabad vs Gujarat Titans</a>
Barcelona besieged the Betis goal in the second half but were denied by a combination of dogged defending, strong goalkeeping from Adrian and some agonising near misses.
Wojciech Szczesny did not have to make a save until the 88th minute when he turned away a long-range drive by Natan.&nbsp;With Betis playing for time, Barcelona did not leave themselves exposed to a late counter-attack as they played out a draw that bolstered their lead at the top. &nbsp;
"If we had won we would be further clear, but in the end it's football," Gavi told Movistar. &nbsp;"The draw leaves a bitter taste, because we were unable to take advantage of the chances we had."
The draw lifted Betis to fifth.
<h2>'Lots of chances'</h2>
"La Liga is more complicated, but we have to fight until the last game," said&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/carlo-ancelotti">Carlo Ancelotti</a>.&nbsp;"They didn't need to do much to score two goals," said Ancelotti. "We took risks at the end and found ourselves hit on the counter-attack.
"We've had deserved defeats this season, but I don't think we lacked attitude today," he added. "It's not a deserved defeat. We created lots of chances but lacked a little effectiveness."
The victory lifted Valencia to 15th, seven points clear of the bottom three. Real&nbsp;had an early chance to take control when Valencia's&nbsp;Cesar Tarrega was adjudged to have fouled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kylian-mbappe">Kylian Mbappe</a> in the penalty area, but Giorgi Mamardashvili saved&nbsp;a weak spot-kick from Vinicius Junior.
It was the Brazilian's second consecutive miss from the spot for&nbsp;Real, after he wasted a Champions League penalty against Atletico&nbsp;Madrid.&nbsp;
Within a minute Valencia went up the other end and won a corner. From it Mouctar&nbsp;Diakhaby outjumped Antonio Rudiger and rocketed home a header.
Real&nbsp;levelled after 50 minutes when Vinicius tapped over the line in a scramble following a&nbsp;Real&nbsp;corner. It was his 104th goal for Los Blancos, matching Brazilian compatriot Ronaldo.
Real&nbsp;gave a lacklustre performance, nevertheless, Mbappe carved out enough chances to win, but wasted opportunities in the 36th, 37th, 48th, 49th and 68th minutes.
Valencia's Georgian goalkeeper Mamardashvili was in imperious form keeping his team in the game until Duro delivered his winner.&nbsp;Valencia stunned the dominant hosts deep into injury time when a slick countering-attacking move was emphatically finished by Duro from Rafa Mir's cross.
Ancelotti started third-choice 'keeper Fran Gonzalez following injuries to Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin, although the Ukrainian was fit enough to be named on the bench.
In addition to Arsenal, Ancelotti has to focus on the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26 in Seville.&nbsp;"The match against Barca in the Copa del Rey will be different; they'll attack more, and we'll have to be better at the back and be effective up front," the Italian said.
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Football, Sports: Barcelona moved four points ahead of Real Madrid. Both teams face UCL first-leg ties this week, Real visit Arsenal, Barcelona play in Dortmund

Barcelona failed to break down a frantic Real Betis defence as they were held to a 1-1 draw in La Liga on Saturday but still gained ground on Real Madrid who earlier conceded deep into added time to lose 2-1 at home to Valencia. Barcelona moved four points ahead of Real Madrid atop La Liga. Both teams face Champions League first-leg ties this week, Real visit Arsenal on Tuesday and Barcelona play in Dortmund the following evening. Barcelona cut open Betis in the seventh minute and Gavi slid the ball past goalkeeper Adrian from inside the six-yard box. But the hosts were unable to turn a series of lively attacks into goals. Instead the visitors hit back after 16 minutes when centreback Natan Souza escaped the clutches of his defender to head home a Giovani Lo Celso corner. Also Read: SRH vs GT Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for SunRisers Hyderabad vs Gujarat Titans Barcelona besieged the Betis goal in the second half but were denied by a combination of dogged defending, strong goalkeeping from Adrian and some agonising near misses. Wojciech Szczesny did not have to make a save until the 88th minute when he turned away a long-range drive by Natan. With Betis playing for time, Barcelona did not leave themselves exposed to a late counter-attack as they played out a draw that bolstered their lead at the top. "If we had won we would be further clear, but in the end it's football," Gavi told Movistar. "The draw leaves a bitter taste, because we were unable to take advantage of the chances we had." The draw lifted Betis to fifth. 'Lots of chances' "La Liga is more complicated, but we have to fight until the last game," said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. "They didn't need to do much to score two goals," said Ancelotti. "We took risks at the end and found ourselves hit on the counter-attack. "We've had deserved defeats this season, but I don't think we lacked attitude today," he added. "It's not a deserved defeat. We created lots of chances but lacked a little effectiveness." The victory lifted Valencia to 15th, seven points clear of the bottom three. Real had an early chance to take control when Valencia's Cesar Tarrega was adjudged to have fouled Kylian Mbappe in the penalty area, but Giorgi Mamardashvili saved a weak spot-kick from Vinicius Junior. It was the Brazilian's second consecutive miss from the spot for Real, after he wasted a Champions League penalty against Atletico Madrid. Within a minute Valencia went up the other end and won a corner. From it Mouctar Diakhaby outjumped Antonio Rudiger and rocketed home a header. Real levelled after 50 minutes when Vinicius tapped over the line in a scramble following a Real corner. It was his 104th goal for Los Blancos, matching Brazilian compatriot Ronaldo. Real gave a lacklustre performance, nevertheless, Mbappe carved out enough chances to win, but wasted opportunities in the 36th, 37th, 48th, 49th and 68th minutes. Valencia's Georgian goalkeeper Mamardashvili was in imperious form keeping his team in the game until Duro delivered his winner. Valencia stunned the dominant hosts deep into injury time when a slick countering-attacking move was emphatically finished by Duro from Rafa Mir's cross. Ancelotti started third-choice 'keeper Fran Gonzalez following injuries to Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin, although the Ukrainian was fit enough to be named on the bench. In addition to Arsenal, Ancelotti has to focus on the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26 in Seville. "The match against Barca in the Copa del Rey will be different; they'll attack more, and we'll have to be better at the back and be effective up front," the Italian said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

La Liga: Real Madrid suffer shock defeat to Valencia, Barcelona draws with Real Betis

Just three points separate leaders Barcelona from Real Madrid at the top of La Liga in a gripping campaign and three goals also divide their main marksmen.
Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski is the division's top goalscorer with 25 and Madrid's Kylian Mbappe trails him on 22, adding another facet to the engrossing battle.
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The Catalans host soaring Real Betis, sixth, on Saturday, shortly after champions Real Madrid welcome relegation-battling Valencia to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Last weekend after Mbappe notched twice against Leganes as Madrid scraped a 3-2 win, Lewandowski responded with a brace of his own in Barcelona's 4-1 rout of Girona.
In the final stages his team spurned opportunities to score more goals and Lewandowski highlighted that.
"In the last minutes there was more space and more chance of scoring," noted the 36-year-old Poland international.
"If we had a better final ball we could have scored one or two more goals."
Lewandowski has netted nine goals in his last nine league games and has 38 strikes from 43 matches across all competitions.
Despite his age, he believes he still has the quality to make the difference at an elite club for years to come.
"I know a lot of people are talking abut my age, but I'm working since (I was) 21, 22, until now and I want to play more years at the top level.
"I feel very good physically, I think looking at the stats there's no difference now to a few years ago."
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick insisted the striker was focused on team success as well as battling for Spain's "Pichichi" award.
"He's fit, he's 100 percent, I know he wants to win the Pichichi," said Flick.
"But like I've always said the most important thing is the team... and this is what I can feel more, that he thinks about the team and focuses on the team and helps the team."
Not far behind him is Mbappe, who boasts 33 goals in 46 games this season, equalling the tally Cristiano Ronaldo produced in his first season for Real Madrid.
Mbappe idolised the Portuguese striker, who joined Los Blancos in 2009 from Manchester United and said it was "very special" to match him.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said this week Mbappe could go on to become a "legend" like Ronaldo was at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Al-Nassr striker netted 450 goals to become Real Madrid's all-time top goalscorer.
Mbappe said he is not setting limits for himself this season in terms of goals, while Vinicius Junior said in January Madrid players would do "everything we can to make (Mbappe) the top scorer in all competitions".
Valencia's visit offers a decent chance to bolster his numbers as Los Che trio Jose Gaya, Luis Rioja and Dimitri Foulquier were all booked last weekend and will miss the game.
No player has scored more league goals in 2025 than Mbappe with 12, ahead of Lewandowski's seven.
Player to watch: Ayoze Perez
Villarreal and Spain striker Perez has been in superb form this season when he has been able to play in between a few spells out injured. The former Newcastle and Leicester forward has netted 12 goals in 22 league games for his club and the Yellow Submarine, fifth, will need him at his best as they host fourth-placed Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Perez netted and set up another goal as Villarreal beat Getafe last weekend.
Key stats
3 - games Valencia have lost under Carlos Corberan in La Liga from 12 played, a drastic improvement on nine defeats in their first 17.
7 - Osasuna's Ante Budimir has converted all of the penalties he has taken this season in the top flight.
521 - appearances for Antoine Griezmann in La Liga, more than any other player from abroad after overtaking Lionel Messi last weekend.
Fixtures
Friday
Rayo Vallecano v Espanyol (1900)
Saturday
Girona v Alaves (1200), Real Madrid v Valencia (1415), Mallorca v Celta Vigo (1730), Barcelona v Real Betis (1900)
Sunday
Las Palmas v Real Sociedad (1200), Sevilla v Atletico Madrid (1415), Valladolid v Getafe (1630), Villarreal v Athletic Bilbao (1900)
Monday
Leganes v Osasuna (1900)
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The Catalans host soaring Real Betis, sixth, on Saturday, shortly after champions Real Madrid welcome relegation-battling Valencia to the Santiago Bernabeu. Football Sports

Just three points separate leaders Barcelona from Real Madrid at the top of La Liga in a gripping campaign and three goals also divide their main marksmen. Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski is the division's top goalscorer with 25 and Madrid's Kylian Mbappe trails him on 22, adding another facet to the engrossing battle. Also Read: Why John Cena's 'unexpected heel turn' just before WrestleMania 41 makes all sense The Catalans host soaring Real Betis, sixth, on Saturday, shortly after champions Real Madrid welcome relegation-battling Valencia to the Santiago Bernabeu. Last weekend after Mbappe notched twice against Leganes as Madrid scraped a 3-2 win, Lewandowski responded with a brace of his own in Barcelona's 4-1 rout of Girona. In the final stages his team spurned opportunities to score more goals and Lewandowski highlighted that. "In the last minutes there was more space and more chance of scoring," noted the 36-year-old Poland international. "If we had a better final ball we could have scored one or two more goals." Lewandowski has netted nine goals in his last nine league games and has 38 strikes from 43 matches across all competitions. Despite his age, he believes he still has the quality to make the difference at an elite club for years to come. "I know a lot of people are talking abut my age, but I'm working since (I was) 21, 22, until now and I want to play more years at the top level. "I feel very good physically, I think looking at the stats there's no difference now to a few years ago." Barcelona coach Hansi Flick insisted the striker was focused on team success as well as battling for Spain's "Pichichi" award. "He's fit, he's 100 percent, I know he wants to win the Pichichi," said Flick. "But like I've always said the most important thing is the team... and this is what I can feel more, that he thinks about the team and focuses on the team and helps the team." Not far behind him is Mbappe, who boasts 33 goals in 46 games this season, equalling the tally Cristiano Ronaldo produced in his first season for Real Madrid. Mbappe idolised the Portuguese striker, who joined Los Blancos in 2009 from Manchester United and said it was "very special" to match him. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said this week Mbappe could go on to become a "legend" like Ronaldo was at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Al-Nassr striker netted 450 goals to become Real Madrid's all-time top goalscorer. Mbappe said he is not setting limits for himself this season in terms of goals, while Vinicius Junior said in January Madrid players would do "everything we can to make (Mbappe) the top scorer in all competitions". Valencia's visit offers a decent chance to bolster his numbers as Los Che trio Jose Gaya, Luis Rioja and Dimitri Foulquier were all booked last weekend and will miss the game. No player has scored more league goals in 2025 than Mbappe with 12, ahead of Lewandowski's seven. Player to watch: Ayoze Perez Villarreal and Spain striker Perez has been in superb form this season when he has been able to play in between a few spells out injured. The former Newcastle and Leicester forward has netted 12 goals in 22 league games for his club and the Yellow Submarine, fifth, will need him at his best as they host fourth-placed Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Perez netted and set up another goal as Villarreal beat Getafe last weekend. Key stats 3 - games Valencia have lost under Carlos Corberan in La Liga from 12 played, a drastic improvement on nine defeats in their first 17. 7 - Osasuna's Ante Budimir has converted all of the penalties he has taken this season in the top flight. 521 - appearances for Antoine Griezmann in La Liga, more than any other player from abroad after overtaking Lionel Messi last weekend. Fixtures Friday Rayo Vallecano v Espanyol (1900) Saturday Girona v Alaves (1200), Real Madrid v Valencia (1415), Mallorca v Celta Vigo (1730), Barcelona v Real Betis (1900) Sunday Las Palmas v Real Sociedad (1200), Sevilla v Atletico Madrid (1415), Valladolid v Getafe (1630), Villarreal v Athletic Bilbao (1900) Monday Leganes v Osasuna (1900) Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

La Liga: Mbappe, Lewandowski in focus as Barcelona and Real Madrid battle for top place

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/robert-lewandowski" rel="dofollow">Robert Lewandowski</a> bagged a brace as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona" rel="dofollow">Barcelona</a> eased to a 4-1 victory over Girona to move three points clear at the top of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/la-liga" rel="dofollow">La Liga</a> on Sunday. After second-placed Real Madrid pulled level on points with them on Saturday by beating Leganes, Hansi Flick's side restored their advantage at the Olympic Stadium.<o:p></o:p>
Lewandowski responded to Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe's double with one of his own to stay three goals ahead in the race for Spain's golden boot.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona, unbeaten this year in 20 matches, took the lead through a Ladislav Krejci own goal near the end of the first half.<o:p></o:p>
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Arnaut Danjuma pulled Girona level but Lewandowski netted twice and Ferran Torres finished off the rout.<o:p></o:p>
Girona beat Barcelona twice last season but have struggled to hit those heights again and sit 13th.<o:p></o:p>
"We played with patience, we had a plan and if we play with that plan we can always score a lot of goals and win the game," veteran striker Lewandowski told DAZN.<o:p></o:p>
The 36-year-old said he had the legs to keep playing for seasons to come.<o:p></o:p>
"I know a lot of people are talking about my age but... I want to play more years at the top level," said the Poland international. "I feel very good physically, I think looking at the stats there's no difference now to a few years ago."<o:p></o:p>
Flick rotated some of his usual suspects with the Copa del Rey semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid in mind.<o:p></o:p>
Barca were below their free-flowing best in the first half despite dominating, occasionally threatening through the dynamic running of teenage star Lamine Yamal and frantic energy of Fermin Lopez.<o:p></o:p>
Paulo Gazzaniga saved well from Lopez on the counter-attack after Viktor Tsygankov blazed over Girona's first decent opportunity.<o:p></o:p>
Gazzaniga saved well from Lewandowski and then Yamal, who also fired over.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona wanted a penalty when Fermin was brought down by Yaser Asprilla on the edge of the box and a free-kick was given.<o:p></o:p>
A VAR review showed the contact was inside the area but the referee decided Lopez fouled Asprilla as they came together, much to Barcelona's chagrin.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Breakthrough<o:p></o:p></h2>
Gazzaniga produced a sensational save with his fingertips to push out a Ronald Araujo header but Barca found a way through before half-time.<o:p></o:p>
Yamal's dangerous free-kick aimed at Eric Garcia was deflected into his own net by Krejci at the near post.<o:p></o:p>
Girona had produced very little of note in the first half but were back level eight minutes into the second through Danjuma.<o:p></o:p>
Daley Blind played the Dutch striker through and he beat Wojciech Szczesny with a clinical low finish.<o:p></o:p>
However, Barcelona were swiftly back in front as La Liga's top goalscorer Lewandowski notched his 24th of the campaign.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez nodded the ball across the six-yard box and Lewandowski contorted his body to reach it and flick it between Gazzaniga's legs.<o:p></o:p>
The forward secured Barcelona's victory with his 25th, slotting home after substitute Frenkie de Jong pushed forward into space and fed him.<o:p></o:p>
There was time for Torres to add a fourth after Gerard Martin found him and the brilliant Yamal to bend a strike against the crossbar.<o:p></o:p>
This was remarkably the 20th time this season Flick's side have scored four goals or more from 45 games, with a potential treble in their sights.<o:p></o:p>
"In the first half we had the game under control but lacked the final ball, but in the second half we played more attacking, made more chances and scored some goals, that's the most important thing," added Lewandowski.
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Sports, Football: Lewandowski responded to Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe's double with one of his own to stay three goals ahead in the race for Spain's golden boot.

Robert Lewandowski bagged a brace as Barcelona eased to a 4-1 victory over Girona to move three points clear at the top of La Liga on Sunday. After second-placed Real Madrid pulled level on points with them on Saturday by beating Leganes, Hansi Flick's side restored their advantage at the Olympic Stadium. Lewandowski responded to Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe's double with one of his own to stay three goals ahead in the race for Spain's golden boot. Barcelona, unbeaten this year in 20 matches, took the lead through a Ladislav Krejci own goal near the end of the first half. Also read | Marcus Rashford's brace powers Aston Villa into FA Cup semis Arnaut Danjuma pulled Girona level but Lewandowski netted twice and Ferran Torres finished off the rout. Girona beat Barcelona twice last season but have struggled to hit those heights again and sit 13th. "We played with patience, we had a plan and if we play with that plan we can always score a lot of goals and win the game," veteran striker Lewandowski told DAZN. The 36-year-old said he had the legs to keep playing for seasons to come. "I know a lot of people are talking about my age but... I want to play more years at the top level," said the Poland international. "I feel very good physically, I think looking at the stats there's no difference now to a few years ago." Flick rotated some of his usual suspects with the Copa del Rey semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid in mind. Barca were below their free-flowing best in the first half despite dominating, occasionally threatening through the dynamic running of teenage star Lamine Yamal and frantic energy of Fermin Lopez. Paulo Gazzaniga saved well from Lopez on the counter-attack after Viktor Tsygankov blazed over Girona's first decent opportunity. Gazzaniga saved well from Lewandowski and then Yamal, who also fired over. Barcelona wanted a penalty when Fermin was brought down by Yaser Asprilla on the edge of the box and a free-kick was given. A VAR review showed the contact was inside the area but the referee decided Lopez fouled Asprilla as they came together, much to Barcelona's chagrin. Breakthrough Gazzaniga produced a sensational save with his fingertips to push out a Ronald Araujo header but Barca found a way through before half-time. Yamal's dangerous free-kick aimed at Eric Garcia was deflected into his own net by Krejci at the near post. Girona had produced very little of note in the first half but were back level eight minutes into the second through Danjuma. Daley Blind played the Dutch striker through and he beat Wojciech Szczesny with a clinical low finish. However, Barcelona were swiftly back in front as La Liga's top goalscorer Lewandowski notched his 24th of the campaign. Lopez nodded the ball across the six-yard box and Lewandowski contorted his body to reach it and flick it between Gazzaniga's legs. The forward secured Barcelona's victory with his 25th, slotting home after substitute Frenkie de Jong pushed forward into space and fed him. There was time for Torres to add a fourth after Gerard Martin found him and the brilliant Yamal to bend a strike against the crossbar. This was remarkably the 20th time this season Flick's side have scored four goals or more from 45 games, with a potential treble in their sights. "In the first half we had the game under control but lacked the final ball, but in the second half we played more attacking, made more chances and scored some goals, that's the most important thing," added Lewandowski. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lewandowski on scoresheet as FC Barcelona thrash Girona to maintain Liga lead

Barcelona and Osasuna's appeals against the rescheduled date of their postponed La Liga match were rejected Thursday by the Spanish football federation's appeals committee.<o:p></o:p>
The La Liga leaders will host Osasuna on March 27, after the game was cancelled when a Barcelona club doctor died on the original date, March 8.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona appealed against the new date because it allowed some of their players "insufficient time to rest" following international duty.<o:p></o:p>
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"Precedent... establishes that national team call-ups are not sufficient grounds for rescheduling a match... when the team effected has enough players to play the match," said the federation's appeals committee.<o:p></o:p>
Winger Raphinha is part of Brazil's squad for a World Cup qualifier at Argentina set to kick-off at 0000 GMT on March 26, while defender Ronald Araujo travels with Uruguay to visit Bolivia on March 25 at 2000 GMT.<o:p></o:p>
Osasuna also appealed against the new date because they would be left with less than 72 hours rest before their next match, which was scheduled for March 28 at Athletic Bilbao.<o:p></o:p>
The committee said the Bilbao match would be moved to March 30, to allow Osasuna recovery time.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Sports, Football: The La Liga leaders will host Osasuna on March 27, after the game was cancelled when a Barcelona club doctor died on the original date, March 8.

Barcelona and Osasuna's appeals against the rescheduled date of their postponed La Liga match were rejected Thursday by the Spanish football federation's appeals committee. The La Liga leaders will host Osasuna on March 27, after the game was cancelled when a Barcelona club doctor died on the original date, March 8. Barcelona appealed against the new date because it allowed some of their players "insufficient time to rest" following international duty. Also read | Chinese footballer Guo Jiaxuan dies of head injury on eve of 19th birthday "Precedent... establishes that national team call-ups are not sufficient grounds for rescheduling a match... when the team effected has enough players to play the match," said the federation's appeals committee. Winger Raphinha is part of Brazil's squad for a World Cup qualifier at Argentina set to kick-off at 0000 GMT on March 26, while defender Ronald Araujo travels with Uruguay to visit Bolivia on March 25 at 2000 GMT. Osasuna also appealed against the new date because they would be left with less than 72 hours rest before their next match, which was scheduled for March 28 at Athletic Bilbao. The committee said the Bilbao match would be moved to March 30, to allow Osasuna recovery time. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Raphinha, Araujo to miss Barcelona-Osasuna rescheduled La Liga game on March 27

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ollie-watkins">Ollie Watkins</a> returned to haunt old club Brentford once more as Aston Villa closed on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/premier-league">Premier League</a>'s top four with a 1-0 win in west London on Saturday.
The England striker has now scored six times in his last six games against the Bees but had Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken to thank for his part in the winner.
Victory lifts Villa up to seventh and within two points of the top four to round off a fine week for Unai Emery's men.&nbsp;After progressing to the FA Cup quarter-finals last weekend, Villa took a giant stride towards the last eight of the Champions League with a 3-1 away win in the first leg of their last 16 tie against Club Brugge on Tuesday.
"We have to be extremely demanding for the rest of the season," said Emery.
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"Now we are really hungry to play the last two-and-a-half months (of the season). We lost something in our way this year and we have to try to recover it now, especially in the Premier League."
Emery had to cope without the injured Emi Martinez, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/marcus-rashford">Marcus Rashford</a> dropped to the bench in the Spaniard's only two changes from midweek.
Villa had won just one of their last seven Premier League games to place their chances of a Champions League return next season in serious jeopardy.
But they ground out a vital three points as Brentford's prolific forward duo of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa failed to fire.&nbsp;After a flat first half, the game came to life just four minutes into the second period when Watkins' powerful low shot slipped through Flekken's grasp.
Moments later the visitors thought they had a second as Watkins this time played provider for Morgan Rogers to stroke home.&nbsp;However, a VAR review for offside came to Brentford's rescue.&nbsp;The home side did most of the pressing in the final half hour.
Keane Lewis-Potter came closest to an equaliser when his shot from outside the box hit the post.&nbsp;Villa, though, should have made a nervy finale more comfortable when Watkins raced clean through but got the execution on an attempted chip over Flekken all wrong.
A first away league win in nearly two months brings Villa right back into contention for the Champions League places.&nbsp;A top-five finish is almost certain to be enough due to the strong performance of English sides in European competition this season.
Villa are now just one point outside the top five as five points separate Manchester City in fourth from Fulham in 10th.
<h2>Barca Liga match postponed after club doctor dies</h2>
Barcelona's La Liga match against Osasuna was postponed on Saturday after one of the club's first team doctors died.&nbsp;"Barcelona is sorry to announce the sad news of the death of the first team doctor, Carles Minarro Garcia, this afternoon," said the club in a statement.
"For this reason, the match between Barcelona and Osasuna has been postponed until a later date.&nbsp;"The board of directors and all the staff at Barcelona wish to convey our most sincere condolences to his family and friends, we are with them at this difficult time."
Fans had begun entering the Olympic stadium for the league leaders' clash against Osasuna, before it was called off around 20 minutes before the expected kick off at 2000 GMT.
"I still can't believe it, a big hug to the family and friends of Carles," wrote Barcelona midfielder Pedri in a post on social media network Instagram.
The doctor, 53, leaves behind a wife and two children, said Barcelona president Joan Laporta.&nbsp;"This is incredibly painful news for Barcelona, it has left us heartbroken, in shock, because it was so sudden," said Laporta.
"We contacted his mother and his wife, to express our condolences and support them in these incredibly painful moments...
"It is our duty to be there for all of them, his wife, his children, his mother."
The doctor had been working with different Barcelona sides since 2017, and began working with the men's football first team a few months ago.&nbsp;Osasuna president Luis Sabalza said his team had no objection whatsoever to the match being postponed.
"We understand that life is the most important thing and you can't play a game thinking that the person with whom you've lived with for so long is not there any more," he told DAZN.
Osasuna offered their condolences in a post on social media platform X.&nbsp;"Osasuna wishes to convey its deepest condolences to the family of doctor Carles Minarro Garcia and would like to send a big hug at this difficult time to all the staff of Barcelona, as well as their fans. May he rest in peace," wrote the club.
On Monday Villarreal's game against Espanyol in La Liga was also postponed because of a heavy rain alert in the region.
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Sports, Football: The England striker has now scored six times in his last six games against the Bees but had Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken to thank for his part in the winner

Ollie Watkins returned to haunt old club Brentford once more as Aston Villa closed on the Premier League's top four with a 1-0 win in west London on Saturday. The England striker has now scored six times in his last six games against the Bees but had Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken to thank for his part in the winner. Victory lifts Villa up to seventh and within two points of the top four to round off a fine week for Unai Emery's men. After progressing to the FA Cup quarter-finals last weekend, Villa took a giant stride towards the last eight of the Champions League with a 3-1 away win in the first leg of their last 16 tie against Club Brugge on Tuesday. "We have to be extremely demanding for the rest of the season," said Emery. Also Read: Bundesliga: Bayern Munich unpunished for shock loss as Bayer Leverkusen fall to defeat "Now we are really hungry to play the last two-and-a-half months (of the season). We lost something in our way this year and we have to try to recover it now, especially in the Premier League." Emery had to cope without the injured Emi Martinez, while Marcus Rashford dropped to the bench in the Spaniard's only two changes from midweek. Villa had won just one of their last seven Premier League games to place their chances of a Champions League return next season in serious jeopardy. But they ground out a vital three points as Brentford's prolific forward duo of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa failed to fire. After a flat first half, the game came to life just four minutes into the second period when Watkins' powerful low shot slipped through Flekken's grasp. Moments later the visitors thought they had a second as Watkins this time played provider for Morgan Rogers to stroke home. However, a VAR review for offside came to Brentford's rescue. The home side did most of the pressing in the final half hour. Keane Lewis-Potter came closest to an equaliser when his shot from outside the box hit the post. Villa, though, should have made a nervy finale more comfortable when Watkins raced clean through but got the execution on an attempted chip over Flekken all wrong. A first away league win in nearly two months brings Villa right back into contention for the Champions League places. A top-five finish is almost certain to be enough due to the strong performance of English sides in European competition this season. Villa are now just one point outside the top five as five points separate Manchester City in fourth from Fulham in 10th. Barca Liga match postponed after club doctor dies Barcelona's La Liga match against Osasuna was postponed on Saturday after one of the club's first team doctors died. "Barcelona is sorry to announce the sad news of the death of the first team doctor, Carles Minarro Garcia, this afternoon," said the club in a statement. "For this reason, the match between Barcelona and Osasuna has been postponed until a later date. "The board of directors and all the staff at Barcelona wish to convey our most sincere condolences to his family and friends, we are with them at this difficult time." Fans had begun entering the Olympic stadium for the league leaders' clash against Osasuna, before it was called off around 20 minutes before the expected kick off at 2000 GMT. "I still can't believe it, a big hug to the family and friends of Carles," wrote Barcelona midfielder Pedri in a post on social media network Instagram. The doctor, 53, leaves behind a wife and two children, said Barcelona president Joan Laporta. "This is incredibly painful news for Barcelona, it has left us heartbroken, in shock, because it was so sudden," said Laporta. "We contacted his mother and his wife, to express our condolences and support them in these incredibly painful moments... "It is our duty to be there for all of them, his wife, his children, his mother." The doctor had been working with different Barcelona sides since 2017, and began working with the men's football first team a few months ago. Osasuna president Luis Sabalza said his team had no objection whatsoever to the match being postponed. "We understand that life is the most important thing and you can't play a game thinking that the person with whom you've lived with for so long is not there any more," he told DAZN. Osasuna offered their condolences in a post on social media platform X. "Osasuna wishes to convey its deepest condolences to the family of doctor Carles Minarro Garcia and would like to send a big hug at this difficult time to all the staff of Barcelona, as well as their fans. May he rest in peace," wrote the club. On Monday Villarreal's game against Espanyol in La Liga was also postponed because of a heavy rain alert in the region. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League: Watkins haunts Brentford to revive Aston Villa's top-four hopes

La Liga champions Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat at Real Betis on Saturday, which coach Carlo Ancelotti said was a "big blow" to their title defence, while Atletico Madrid took advantage to move top of the table.<o:p></o:p>
Diego Simeone's side scraped a nervy 1-0 win against Athletic Bilbao, fourth, to lead Barcelona and Real Madrid by two points.<o:p></o:p>
For Betis, Isco scored the winner from the penalty spot against his former side Madrid, third, with Barca in action on Sunday against Real Sociedad and able to reclaim top spot with a win.<o:p></o:p>
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Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti picked a strong line up, with no breathing room in the title race, despite the impending Champions League clash against rivals Atletico.<o:p></o:p>
"If we play like this on Tuesday we will not win," said Ancelotti, whose side have one win in their last five Liga matches.<o:p></o:p>
The visitors took the lead at the Benito Villamarin stadium through Brahim Diaz but Betis struck back with a Johnny Cardoso header, as Real Madrid missed the suspended Jude Bellingham.<o:p></o:p>
Isco secured the Andalusian side a deserved victory with a penalty early in the second half.<o:p></o:p>
"It's a big blow. We have to react," continued Ancelotti. "We started well, but later we did not have the same level of commitment, the game got out of control against a side that played better than us and deserved to win."<o:p></o:p>
Isco returned to action in December after missing several months with a broken leg and has hit top form in recent weeks.<o:p></o:p>
"About halfway through the first half we stepped up our game, and I'm happy with the win against the best team around these days," said the playmaker, who won several major trophies with Real Madrid before departing in 2022.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid started the stronger and opened the scoring after just 10 minutes, putting together a fine team move with 19 passes.<o:p></o:p>
It culminated when Kylian Mbappe found Ferland Mendy, who squared for Diaz to tuck home.<o:p></o:p>
Betis soon found their footing and Cardoso powered a header past Thibaut Courtois from Isco's corner to level.<o:p></o:p>
Without Bellingham's dynamism in midfield Madrid were outfought by Betis.<o:p></o:p>
Manuel Pellegrini's side took the lead early in the second half from the penalty spot when Antonio Rudiger crashed into Jesus Rodriguez as he ran in on goal.<o:p></o:p>
Isco smashed home for his sixth goal across all competitions.<o:p></o:p>
For the final 15 minutes, Ancelotti replaced Mbappe, who had dental trouble ahead of the game, with Endrick.<o:p></o:p>
"He had that (tooth) problem, he hadn't trained a lot," explained Ancelotti. "He was not at his best level."<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'Goddess of fortune'<o:p></o:p></h2>
Atletico Madrid held their nerve at the Metropolitano stadium to take a provisional lead in the title race. <o:p></o:p>
After substitute Alvarez struck, the Basque side hit the woodwork three times in the hunt for an equaliser.<o:p></o:p>
"It's an incredibly important win, we knew it would not be easy," Alvarez told Movistar. "We're in the fight for the title, but we know there's a long way to go, a lot of very important games are coming close together, but with hard work and humility we'll achieve (our goals)."<o:p></o:p>
Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a fine save to deny Inaki Williams early on, in an even first half.<o:p></o:p>
The Rojiblancos have often relied on their substitutes making huge impacts this season and so it proved again as they opened the scoring.<o:p></o:p>
Simeone brought on Marcos Llorente and Alvarez just before the hour mark and the duo combined to open the scoring after 66 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
Llorente delivered a fine low pass for the former Manchester City striker to run on to, and he finished with minimal fuss for his eighth league goal of the campaign.<o:p></o:p>
Athletic came millimetres away from an equaliser when Benat Prados headed against the post with Oblak beaten and Williams crashed the rebound off the underside of the crossbar and out.<o:p></o:p>
"In the second half our changes helped us, Oblak too, and the goddess of fortune with the shots that hit the post and the bar," said Atletico coach Simeone.<o:p></o:p>
Ghana international Williams hit the woodwork once again with a deflected strike from range and Athletic left frustrated.<o:p></o:p>
"I think we deserved a lot more, we had more chances than them, but it's not about who deserves what, it's about putting them away," Williams told Movistar.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid scraped a nervy 1-0 win against Athletic Bilbao to lead Barcelona and Real Madrid by two points in La Liga.

La Liga champions Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat at Real Betis on Saturday, which coach Carlo Ancelotti said was a "big blow" to their title defence, while Atletico Madrid took advantage to move top of the table. Diego Simeone's side scraped a nervy 1-0 win against Athletic Bilbao, fourth, to lead Barcelona and Real Madrid by two points. For Betis, Isco scored the winner from the penalty spot against his former side Madrid, third, with Barca in action on Sunday against Real Sociedad and able to reclaim top spot with a win. Also read | FA Cup: Crystal Palace's Mateta gets 25 stitches after 'reckless' kick to head Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti picked a strong line up, with no breathing room in the title race, despite the impending Champions League clash against rivals Atletico. "If we play like this on Tuesday we will not win," said Ancelotti, whose side have one win in their last five Liga matches. The visitors took the lead at the Benito Villamarin stadium through Brahim Diaz but Betis struck back with a Johnny Cardoso header, as Real Madrid missed the suspended Jude Bellingham. Isco secured the Andalusian side a deserved victory with a penalty early in the second half. "It's a big blow. We have to react," continued Ancelotti. "We started well, but later we did not have the same level of commitment, the game got out of control against a side that played better than us and deserved to win." Isco returned to action in December after missing several months with a broken leg and has hit top form in recent weeks. "About halfway through the first half we stepped up our game, and I'm happy with the win against the best team around these days," said the playmaker, who won several major trophies with Real Madrid before departing in 2022. Madrid started the stronger and opened the scoring after just 10 minutes, putting together a fine team move with 19 passes. It culminated when Kylian Mbappe found Ferland Mendy, who squared for Diaz to tuck home. Betis soon found their footing and Cardoso powered a header past Thibaut Courtois from Isco's corner to level. Without Bellingham's dynamism in midfield Madrid were outfought by Betis. Manuel Pellegrini's side took the lead early in the second half from the penalty spot when Antonio Rudiger crashed into Jesus Rodriguez as he ran in on goal. Isco smashed home for his sixth goal across all competitions. For the final 15 minutes, Ancelotti replaced Mbappe, who had dental trouble ahead of the game, with Endrick. "He had that (tooth) problem, he hadn't trained a lot," explained Ancelotti. "He was not at his best level." 'Goddess of fortune' Atletico Madrid held their nerve at the Metropolitano stadium to take a provisional lead in the title race. After substitute Alvarez struck, the Basque side hit the woodwork three times in the hunt for an equaliser. "It's an incredibly important win, we knew it would not be easy," Alvarez told Movistar. "We're in the fight for the title, but we know there's a long way to go, a lot of very important games are coming close together, but with hard work and humility we'll achieve (our goals)." Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a fine save to deny Inaki Williams early on, in an even first half. The Rojiblancos have often relied on their substitutes making huge impacts this season and so it proved again as they opened the scoring. Simeone brought on Marcos Llorente and Alvarez just before the hour mark and the duo combined to open the scoring after 66 minutes. Llorente delivered a fine low pass for the former Manchester City striker to run on to, and he finished with minimal fuss for his eighth league goal of the campaign. Athletic came millimetres away from an equaliser when Benat Prados headed against the post with Oblak beaten and Williams crashed the rebound off the underside of the crossbar and out. "In the second half our changes helped us, Oblak too, and the goddess of fortune with the shots that hit the post and the bar," said Atletico coach Simeone. Ghana international Williams hit the woodwork once again with a deflected strike from range and Athletic left frustrated. "I think we deserved a lot more, we had more chances than them, but it's not about who deserves what, it's about putting them away," Williams told Movistar. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Real Madrid’s shock loss at Betis sees Atletico go top of La Liga table

Luka Modric scored a brilliant goal from long range to help <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a> secure a 2-0 win against Girona on Sunday, which took them back level with Barcelona at the top of La Liga.
Vinicius Junior wrapped up the win late on as Carlo Ancelotti's side produced a solid display at the Santiago Bernabeu.&nbsp;After rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, now third, both won on Saturday, the pressure was on for the champions in the title race.
They had not won in their prior three league games but flexed their muscles by thrashing Man City in the Champions League in midweek.
"It's a very important win, we have to stay in the fight," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/luka-modric">Modric</a> told Real Madrid TV.&nbsp;"We can't let our level slip and consider ourselves satisfied, we can still grow as a team."
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The Croatian's goal was the highlight of the match.&nbsp;"I was by myself, I controlled the ball, I hit it well and it went in," Modric added.
"I don't know if it's one of the most spectacular I've scored, it was really nice, it's always special to score at the Bernabeu."
Madrid were without suspended England international Jude Bellingham after his red card last weekend.&nbsp;Thibaut Courtois made a good save in the opening stages to deny Arnau Martinez, but Girona were unable to build on the chance.&nbsp;Last year's surprise title contenders were hard for Madrid to break down but far less threatening in attack than at their fluent best.
Watch the magical goal here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
LUKA MODRIC WHAT A GOAL! 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/99vtnvIVKW">pic.twitter.com/99vtnvIVKW</a>
&mdash; TC (@totalcristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/totalcristiano/status/1893692039876813288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
At the other end, Paulo Gazzaniga saved well from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kylian-mbappe">Kylian Mbappe</a> and Vinicius let a good attacking opportunity break down instead of looking for his French strike partner.
Another promising Real Madrid counterattack was cut short when Vinicius tried to square for Mbappe but his pass was cut out. Girona winger Viktor Tsygankov should have struck for the visitors but blazed a good opportunity over the bar, snatching at his shot.
With the game trickling towards halftime, Modric sent Madrid ahead with a rocket from distance. The 39-year-old midfielder controlled the ball after a corner was cleared into his path and hammered a superb strike beyond the helpless Gazzaniga.
<h2>'Very very happy'</h2>
Madrid had further chances to extend their lead in the second half, with Vinicius clipping the crossbar with a curling effort from the edge of the box.
Gazzaniga made a fine save to thwart Mbappe after the former Paris Saint-Germain star controlled a dropping ball brilliantly. Eventually Mbappe fed Vinicius with a perfectly weighted pass for the second goal, which the Brazilian brushed past the Girona goalkeeper.
Real Madrid have been engaged in a battle with Spanish officials in the past few weeks, but with the exception of one moment where Rodrygo found his path blocked by the referee, they had nothing to complain about on a tranquil afternoon in the Spanish capital.
David Alaba started for Los Blancos for the first time in over a year after a severe knee injury.&nbsp;"It's very important win for us, we are very happy, it's a good moment for us," the Austrian defender told Real Madrid TV.
"I am very, very happy, after the injury, I was ready to start this game."&nbsp;Real Madrid next face Real Sociedad away on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.
Girona coach Michel Sanchez said his side, 12th, were bound to struggle against the European champions.&nbsp;"Real Madrid know every point is vital and coming here at this point of the season is hard," said Sanchez.
"We tried but it's not easy to play against Real Madrid in a winning mode, because they need to."
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Football, Sports: Real Madrid had not won in their prior three league games but flexed their muscles by thrashing Man City in the UEFA Champions League in midweek

Luka Modric scored a brilliant goal from long range to help Real Madrid secure a 2-0 win against Girona on Sunday, which took them back level with Barcelona at the top of La Liga. Vinicius Junior wrapped up the win late on as Carlo Ancelotti's side produced a solid display at the Santiago Bernabeu. After rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, now third, both won on Saturday, the pressure was on for the champions in the title race. They had not won in their prior three league games but flexed their muscles by thrashing Man City in the Champions League in midweek. "It's a very important win, we have to stay in the fight," Modric told Real Madrid TV. "We can't let our level slip and consider ourselves satisfied, we can still grow as a team." Also Read: At 36, Kohli’s record-shattering century guides India to famous victory against Pakistan The Croatian's goal was the highlight of the match. "I was by myself, I controlled the ball, I hit it well and it went in," Modric added. "I don't know if it's one of the most spectacular I've scored, it was really nice, it's always special to score at the Bernabeu." Madrid were without suspended England international Jude Bellingham after his red card last weekend. Thibaut Courtois made a good save in the opening stages to deny Arnau Martinez, but Girona were unable to build on the chance. Last year's surprise title contenders were hard for Madrid to break down but far less threatening in attack than at their fluent best. Watch the magical goal here: LUKA MODRIC WHAT A GOAL! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/99vtnvIVKW — TC (@totalcristiano) February 23, 2025 At the other end, Paulo Gazzaniga saved well from Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius let a good attacking opportunity break down instead of looking for his French strike partner. Another promising Real Madrid counterattack was cut short when Vinicius tried to square for Mbappe but his pass was cut out. Girona winger Viktor Tsygankov should have struck for the visitors but blazed a good opportunity over the bar, snatching at his shot. With the game trickling towards halftime, Modric sent Madrid ahead with a rocket from distance. The 39-year-old midfielder controlled the ball after a corner was cleared into his path and hammered a superb strike beyond the helpless Gazzaniga. 'Very very happy' Madrid had further chances to extend their lead in the second half, with Vinicius clipping the crossbar with a curling effort from the edge of the box. Gazzaniga made a fine save to thwart Mbappe after the former Paris Saint-Germain star controlled a dropping ball brilliantly. Eventually Mbappe fed Vinicius with a perfectly weighted pass for the second goal, which the Brazilian brushed past the Girona goalkeeper. Real Madrid have been engaged in a battle with Spanish officials in the past few weeks, but with the exception of one moment where Rodrygo found his path blocked by the referee, they had nothing to complain about on a tranquil afternoon in the Spanish capital. David Alaba started for Los Blancos for the first time in over a year after a severe knee injury. "It's very important win for us, we are very happy, it's a good moment for us," the Austrian defender told Real Madrid TV. "I am very, very happy, after the injury, I was ready to start this game." Real Madrid next face Real Sociedad away on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Girona coach Michel Sanchez said his side, 12th, were bound to struggle against the European champions. "Real Madrid know every point is vital and coming here at this point of the season is hard," said Sanchez. "We tried but it's not easy to play against Real Madrid in a winning mode, because they need to." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

La Liga: Modric seals Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Girona with a screamer!

Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres struck to earn Barcelona a 2-0 win at Las Palmas on Saturday which took them back top of La Liga.<o:p></o:p>
After Atletico Madrid beat Valencia to temporarily take pole position, the Catalans replaced them with a narrow victory on the road and sit one point ahead of the Rojiblancos.<o:p></o:p>
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Substitute Olmo produced a fine finish before Torres drilled home to settle the game and earn Barca revenge for a shock home defeat by Las Palmas earlier in the season.<o:p></o:p>
Champions Real Madrid, third, can pull level on points with Barcelona if they beat Girona at home on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
"We don't feel pressure, we want to be at the top, we know (winning the league) is up to us," Olmo told Movistar. "Today, we took three important points, so we're going home happy."<o:p></o:p>
Olmo has not featured a great deal since the club's financial problems forced him to be unregistered at the start of the year, until Spain's national sports council granted a temporary measure which allowed him to play again.<o:p></o:p>
The former RB Leipzig star missed some games with a calf strain in January.<o:p></o:p>
"I am in shape, I'm 100 percent, with a lot of desire to play and get back in the team," he added. "I'm glad to be able to play, helping the team with goals. <o:p></o:p>
"In the end I want to score as many as I can to help the team and keep winning, which is the important thing."<o:p></o:p>
Barca were inaccurate in attack in a tight first half, unable to find the quality they needed to unpick the hosts' defence.<o:p></o:p>
Flick took action at the break and brought on playmaker Dani Olmo in place of the quiet Fermin Lopez.<o:p></o:p>
The Spain international's first contribution was a sloppy pass that flew out of play but he quickly found his focus.<o:p></o:p>
Lamine Yamal skipped forward and slipped the ball to Olmo, who showed good footwork to find space in the box and finish.<o:p></o:p>
Las Palmas pushed forward in search of an equaliser and former Barca striker Sandro Ramirez lashed an effort narrowly wide of Wojciech Szczesny's post.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'Not as serious as we want' <o:p></o:p></h2>
At the other end Yamal burst into life, increasingly threatening, and crossed for the league's top scorer Robert Lewandowski, who directed his header straight at Jasper Cillessen.<o:p></o:p>
Lewandowski fired over after good work by Alejandro Balde as the Polish veteran began to enjoy the extra space left at the back by the hosts.<o:p></o:p>
Las Palmas appealed for a penalty when a shot struck the back of Eric Garcia's arm in the box but VAR showed there was an offside in the build-up.<o:p></o:p>
Eight minutes of stoppage time were added on which gave Las Palmas heart but instead it was Barcelona who struck.<o:p></o:p>
A loose pass at the back was picked up by Raphinha, who fed Torres to rifle past Cillessen and seal Barcelona's win.<o:p></o:p>
"I don't think we had a very good match, we missed five or ten percent (from our best level)" admitted Barca coach Flick. "It was not as serious as we normally want to play."<o:p></o:p>
Defeat leaves Las Palmas 17th, level on points with Valencia, 18th, in the relegation zone.
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Sports, Football: After Atletico beat Valencia to temporarily take pole position, Barca replaced them with a narrow victory on the road and sit one point ahead of the Rojiblancos.

Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres struck to earn Barcelona a 2-0 win at Las Palmas on Saturday which took them back top of La Liga. After Atletico Madrid beat Valencia to temporarily take pole position, the Catalans replaced them with a narrow victory on the road and sit one point ahead of the Rojiblancos. Also read | Premier League: Arsenal's title hopes suffer blow after West Ham defeat Substitute Olmo produced a fine finish before Torres drilled home to settle the game and earn Barca revenge for a shock home defeat by Las Palmas earlier in the season. Champions Real Madrid, third, can pull level on points with Barcelona if they beat Girona at home on Saturday. "We don't feel pressure, we want to be at the top, we know (winning the league) is up to us," Olmo told Movistar. "Today, we took three important points, so we're going home happy." Olmo has not featured a great deal since the club's financial problems forced him to be unregistered at the start of the year, until Spain's national sports council granted a temporary measure which allowed him to play again. The former RB Leipzig star missed some games with a calf strain in January. "I am in shape, I'm 100 percent, with a lot of desire to play and get back in the team," he added. "I'm glad to be able to play, helping the team with goals. "In the end I want to score as many as I can to help the team and keep winning, which is the important thing." Barca were inaccurate in attack in a tight first half, unable to find the quality they needed to unpick the hosts' defence. Flick took action at the break and brought on playmaker Dani Olmo in place of the quiet Fermin Lopez. The Spain international's first contribution was a sloppy pass that flew out of play but he quickly found his focus. Lamine Yamal skipped forward and slipped the ball to Olmo, who showed good footwork to find space in the box and finish. Las Palmas pushed forward in search of an equaliser and former Barca striker Sandro Ramirez lashed an effort narrowly wide of Wojciech Szczesny's post. 'Not as serious as we want' At the other end Yamal burst into life, increasingly threatening, and crossed for the league's top scorer Robert Lewandowski, who directed his header straight at Jasper Cillessen. Lewandowski fired over after good work by Alejandro Balde as the Polish veteran began to enjoy the extra space left at the back by the hosts. Las Palmas appealed for a penalty when a shot struck the back of Eric Garcia's arm in the box but VAR showed there was an offside in the build-up. Eight minutes of stoppage time were added on which gave Las Palmas heart but instead it was Barcelona who struck. A loose pass at the back was picked up by Raphinha, who fed Torres to rifle past Cillessen and seal Barcelona's win. "I don't think we had a very good match, we missed five or ten percent (from our best level)" admitted Barca coach Flick. "It was not as serious as we normally want to play." Defeat leaves Las Palmas 17th, level on points with Valencia, 18th, in the relegation zone. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Goals from Olmo, Torres help Barcelona down Las Palmas to reclaim La Liga lead

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham was hit with a two-match La Liga ban on Wednesday by the Spanish football federation's disciplinary committee after he was sent off for dissent.
The England international was dismissed during the champions' 1-1 draw at Osasuna on Saturday by referee Jose Munuera Montero.
Bellingham, who insisted he had been expressing his frustration and not insulting the referee, will miss league matches against Girona and Real Betis on February 23 and March 2 respectively.
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The disciplinary committee said Madrid's attempts to show that Bellingham had not insulted the official were "insufficient" to remove "the presumption of veracity of the referee's report".
Bellingham had said his dismissal was due to a misunderstanding.
"I think you can see clearly in the video, I remember the incident very well, it was an expression (I was saying) to myself," said the 21-year-old.
"I'm not even directing myself towards the referee, but obviously there was a misunderstanding. He's believed that I've said (something insulting) to him."
A Real Madrid source told AFP the club will appeal the decision.
Referee Munuera Montero has faced online abuse and threats in the days since sending off Bellingham, which the federation described as "repulsive".
Real Madrid have attacked Spanish refereeing in recent weeks, calling it "rigged" in a letter they sent to the federation and published on their website.
Los Blancos have not won in their last three league games, and rivals Barcelona now lead the table on goal difference.
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Bellingham, who insisted he had been expressing his frustration and not insulting the referee, will miss league matches against Girona and Real Betis on February 23 and March 2, respectively. Football Sports

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham was hit with a two-match La Liga ban on Wednesday by the Spanish football federation's disciplinary committee after he was sent off for dissent. The England international was dismissed during the champions' 1-1 draw at Osasuna on Saturday by referee Jose Munuera Montero. Bellingham, who insisted he had been expressing his frustration and not insulting the referee, will miss league matches against Girona and Real Betis on February 23 and March 2 respectively. Also Read: Champions League: Bayern Munich edge out Celtic to reach last 16; Milan dumped out The disciplinary committee said Madrid's attempts to show that Bellingham had not insulted the official were "insufficient" to remove "the presumption of veracity of the referee's report". Bellingham had said his dismissal was due to a misunderstanding. "I think you can see clearly in the video, I remember the incident very well, it was an expression (I was saying) to myself," said the 21-year-old. "I'm not even directing myself towards the referee, but obviously there was a misunderstanding. He's believed that I've said (something insulting) to him." A Real Madrid source told AFP the club will appeal the decision. Referee Munuera Montero has faced online abuse and threats in the days since sending off Bellingham, which the federation described as "repulsive". Real Madrid have attacked Spanish refereeing in recent weeks, calling it "rigged" in a letter they sent to the federation and published on their website. Los Blancos have not won in their last three league games, and rivals Barcelona now lead the table on goal difference. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

La Liga: Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham banned for two games for showing dissent

Real Madrid dropped two points in a 1-1 draw at Osasuna on Saturday in which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=jude+bellingham">Jude Bellingham</a> was sent off, but stayed top of La Liga after Atletico Madrid tied 1-1 with Celta Vigo.
The Spanish champions took the lead through <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kylian-mbappe">Kylian Mbappe</a> before the referee red-carded England international Bellingham for dissent towards the end of the first half.
Ante Budimir levelled for hosts Osasuna from the penalty spot after 58 minutes as Carlo Ancelotti's side endured a third consecutive league match without victory.
Atletico Madrid, who also played with 10 men after Pablo Barrios was dismissed in just the seventh minute, were unable to capitalise and remain a point behind Los Blancos, but Barcelona could pull level with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a> if they beat Rayo Vallecano on Monday.
Bellingham insisted he was expressing his frustration and not insulting the referee.&nbsp;"I think you can see clearly in the video, I remember the incident very well, it was an expression to myself," he told reporters.
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"I'm not even directing myself towards the referee, but obviously there was a misunderstanding. He's believed that I've said (something insulting) to him...
"There was no intent to insult him, there was no insult."&nbsp;Real Madrid coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/carlo-ancelotti">Carlo Ancelotti</a> said he was happy with how his team played despite dropping points.&nbsp;"In a footballing sense we started very well, and we finished well despite having one less player," said Ancelotti.
The Italian made a few rotations with the midweek Champions League play-off second leg clash against Manchester City in mind, with Rodrygo resting and Brahim Diaz given a rare start.
Los Blancos controlled the game from the off, moving the ball around too quickly for Osasuna to get a foothold.&nbsp;Madrid did not have to wait long for their opener, with Mbappe firing home from Fede Valverde's cross, his seventh goal in his last five La Liga matches.
<h2>'Referee was nervous'</h2>
The game changed when Bellingham was dismissed in the 39th minute. The England international exchanged words with referee Jose Munuera Montero, who then reached for his red card.
Ancelotti said Bellingham should not have been dismissed.&nbsp;"I think with Bellingham's red card (the referee) didn't understand the English well... I don't think it's something offensive," Ancelotti told reporters.
"I think the red card came out because the referee was nervous... Bellingham did nothing today to have been sent off, absolutely nothing."
Madrid have complained heavily about Spanish refereeing in recent weeks, labelling it "rigged" and they grew further frustrated with Munuera Montero in the second half.
Osasuna levelled before the hour mark through Budimir from the spot after Eduardo Camavinga was late on the Croatian striker.&nbsp;Budimir's penalty was his 13th goal of the season, behind only Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski and Mbappe, on 17, in the standings.
Mbappe had one last chance in stoppage time but Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera palmed away his effort with a strong hand.
After playing for nearly an hour with 10 men, Manchester City will hope it takes a toll on Madrid on Wednesday when the sides meet at the Santiago Bernabeu.
<h2>'Gladiators'</h2>
Atletico's draw with Celta was conditioned by Barrios' seventh minute red card for a reckless high tackle on Pablo Duran.&nbsp;Iago Aspas fired Celta ahead in the second half from the penalty spot but Atletico target man Alexander Sorloth rescued a point for the Rojiblancos.
"The team had gladiators again, playing 90 minutes with one fewer player is very tough," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone, who did not disagree with the decision to dismiss Barrios.
"It was a red card, it was clear," he added.&nbsp;Atletico dug deep in the first half and frustrated Celta, who had more of the ball, before biting back to level after Aspas' penalty.
"When we were left with 10 men it's very difficult... the team tried everything," Atletico midfielder Koke told DAZN.&nbsp;"We defended well, we suffered when we had to. Obviously we're still in the fight for the title."
Valencia, 17th and battling relegation, fought back to draw 1-1 at fifth-place Villarreal in an east coast derby.
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Sports, Football: The Spanish champions took lead through Kylian Mbappe before the referee red-carded England international Bellingham for dissent towards the end of the first half

Real Madrid dropped two points in a 1-1 draw at Osasuna on Saturday in which Jude Bellingham was sent off, but stayed top of La Liga after Atletico Madrid tied 1-1 with Celta Vigo. The Spanish champions took the lead through Kylian Mbappe before the referee red-carded England international Bellingham for dissent towards the end of the first half. Ante Budimir levelled for hosts Osasuna from the penalty spot after 58 minutes as Carlo Ancelotti's side endured a third consecutive league match without victory. Atletico Madrid, who also played with 10 men after Pablo Barrios was dismissed in just the seventh minute, were unable to capitalise and remain a point behind Los Blancos, but Barcelona could pull level with Real Madrid if they beat Rayo Vallecano on Monday. Bellingham insisted he was expressing his frustration and not insulting the referee. "I think you can see clearly in the video, I remember the incident very well, it was an expression to myself," he told reporters. Also Read: Qatar Open: Anisimova triumphs in Doha, clinches first WTA 1000 title of career "I'm not even directing myself towards the referee, but obviously there was a misunderstanding. He's believed that I've said (something insulting) to him... "There was no intent to insult him, there was no insult." Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said he was happy with how his team played despite dropping points. "In a footballing sense we started very well, and we finished well despite having one less player," said Ancelotti. The Italian made a few rotations with the midweek Champions League play-off second leg clash against Manchester City in mind, with Rodrygo resting and Brahim Diaz given a rare start. Los Blancos controlled the game from the off, moving the ball around too quickly for Osasuna to get a foothold. Madrid did not have to wait long for their opener, with Mbappe firing home from Fede Valverde's cross, his seventh goal in his last five La Liga matches. 'Referee was nervous' The game changed when Bellingham was dismissed in the 39th minute. The England international exchanged words with referee Jose Munuera Montero, who then reached for his red card. Ancelotti said Bellingham should not have been dismissed. "I think with Bellingham's red card (the referee) didn't understand the English well... I don't think it's something offensive," Ancelotti told reporters. "I think the red card came out because the referee was nervous... Bellingham did nothing today to have been sent off, absolutely nothing." Madrid have complained heavily about Spanish refereeing in recent weeks, labelling it "rigged" and they grew further frustrated with Munuera Montero in the second half. Osasuna levelled before the hour mark through Budimir from the spot after Eduardo Camavinga was late on the Croatian striker. Budimir's penalty was his 13th goal of the season, behind only Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski and Mbappe, on 17, in the standings. Mbappe had one last chance in stoppage time but Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera palmed away his effort with a strong hand. After playing for nearly an hour with 10 men, Manchester City will hope it takes a toll on Madrid on Wednesday when the sides meet at the Santiago Bernabeu. 'Gladiators' Atletico's draw with Celta was conditioned by Barrios' seventh minute red card for a reckless high tackle on Pablo Duran. Iago Aspas fired Celta ahead in the second half from the penalty spot but Atletico target man Alexander Sorloth rescued a point for the Rojiblancos. "The team had gladiators again, playing 90 minutes with one fewer player is very tough," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone, who did not disagree with the decision to dismiss Barrios. "It was a red card, it was clear," he added. Atletico dug deep in the first half and frustrated Celta, who had more of the ball, before biting back to level after Aspas' penalty. "When we were left with 10 men it's very difficult... the team tried everything," Atletico midfielder Koke told DAZN. "We defended well, we suffered when we had to. Obviously we're still in the fight for the title." Valencia, 17th and battling relegation, fought back to draw 1-1 at fifth-place Villarreal in an east coast derby. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

La Liga: 10-man Real Madrid draws at Osasuna after Bellingham's red card

Barcelona cut the gap on La Liga's top two with an entertaining 4-1 win over Sevilla on Sunday, despite playing out the final half-hour with 10 men after Fermin Lopez's red card.<o:p></o:p>
Robert Lewandowski, Lopez, Raphinha and Eric Garcia struck for the Catalans, who were able to capitalise on leaders Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with second-placed Atletico Madrid on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
Hansi Flick's Barca climbed within two points of Los Blancos and moved one behind Atletico to crank up the tension in the title race.<o:p></o:p>
Lewandowski's early strike was cancelled out by Sevilla's Ruben Vargas, with Lopez and Raphinha pouncing early in the second half.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez was sent off for a high tackle but Barcelona held out and extended their lead when Garcia nodded home late on.<o:p></o:p>
"Today we had to win to stay in the title race and now we're putting the pressure on," Barca defender Inigo Martinez told DAZN. "I think the team played a brilliant match and this is the way forward...<o:p></o:p>
"If we stay secure and solid at the back, up front we all know what our forwards are capable of."<o:p></o:p>
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The match at Sevilla's Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium got off to an explosive start with teenage winger Lamine Yamal forcing Sevilla goalkeeper Orjan Nyland into a superb save with a curling effort.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona took the lead moments later from the resulting corner, played short, with Raphinha eventually crossing for Martinez to nod the ball across goal.<o:p></o:p>
Veteran Polish striker Lewandowski prodded home from close range after seven minutes to reach 19 league goals and extend his lead as the division's top goalscorer.<o:p></o:p>
Sevilla were level almost instantly, with Ronald Araujo playing Saul Niguez onside and the Spaniard crossed for Vargas to turn home in the eighth minute.<o:p></o:p>
Araujo's unfortunate evening was compounded by an injury sustained when fouled by Saul, with Pau Cubarsi replacing him in the 22nd minute.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Lopez's short stay<o:p></o:p></h2>
Barca stopper Wojciech Szczesny made a good save from an acrobatic Dodi Lukebakio effort as the hosts, 13th, gave as good as they got in the first half.<o:p></o:p>
Flick sent on Lopez at half-time for Gavi and the midfielder scored and got sent off within the space of 15 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez netted at the start of the second half, heading home from playmaker Pedri's inviting cross.<o:p></o:p>
Vargas netted from an offside position at the other end before Raphinha extended Barcelona's lead with a vicious effort from distance in the 55th minute.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez was dismissed for a rash high challenge on Djibril Sow on the hour mark, leaving the Catalans the job of protecting their lead with a man fewer.<o:p></o:p>
Szczesny saved low from Suso's drive but Sevilla created little else of note as Barcelona largely kept the Andalucians at arm's length.<o:p></o:p>
Garcia nodded home at the far post in the final stages as Raphinha's deflected cross fell kindly to him to wrap up Barcelona's emphatic victory.
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Sports, Football: Lewandowski, Lopez and Raphinha struck for the Catalans, who were able to capitalise on leaders Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with second-placed Atletico on Saturday.

Barcelona cut the gap on La Liga's top two with an entertaining 4-1 win over Sevilla on Sunday, despite playing out the final half-hour with 10 men after Fermin Lopez's red card. Robert Lewandowski, Lopez, Raphinha and Eric Garcia struck for the Catalans, who were able to capitalise on leaders Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with second-placed Atletico Madrid on Saturday. Hansi Flick's Barca climbed within two points of Los Blancos and moved one behind Atletico to crank up the tension in the title race. Lewandowski's early strike was cancelled out by Sevilla's Ruben Vargas, with Lopez and Raphinha pouncing early in the second half. Lopez was sent off for a high tackle but Barcelona held out and extended their lead when Garcia nodded home late on. "Today we had to win to stay in the title race and now we're putting the pressure on," Barca defender Inigo Martinez told DAZN. "I think the team played a brilliant match and this is the way forward... "If we stay secure and solid at the back, up front we all know what our forwards are capable of." Also read | FA Cup: Liverpool knocked out by second-tier Plymouth The match at Sevilla's Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium got off to an explosive start with teenage winger Lamine Yamal forcing Sevilla goalkeeper Orjan Nyland into a superb save with a curling effort. Barcelona took the lead moments later from the resulting corner, played short, with Raphinha eventually crossing for Martinez to nod the ball across goal. Veteran Polish striker Lewandowski prodded home from close range after seven minutes to reach 19 league goals and extend his lead as the division's top goalscorer. Sevilla were level almost instantly, with Ronald Araujo playing Saul Niguez onside and the Spaniard crossed for Vargas to turn home in the eighth minute. Araujo's unfortunate evening was compounded by an injury sustained when fouled by Saul, with Pau Cubarsi replacing him in the 22nd minute. Lopez's short stay Barca stopper Wojciech Szczesny made a good save from an acrobatic Dodi Lukebakio effort as the hosts, 13th, gave as good as they got in the first half. Flick sent on Lopez at half-time for Gavi and the midfielder scored and got sent off within the space of 15 minutes. Lopez netted at the start of the second half, heading home from playmaker Pedri's inviting cross. Vargas netted from an offside position at the other end before Raphinha extended Barcelona's lead with a vicious effort from distance in the 55th minute. Lopez was dismissed for a rash high challenge on Djibril Sow on the hour mark, leaving the Catalans the job of protecting their lead with a man fewer. Szczesny saved low from Suso's drive but Sevilla created little else of note as Barcelona largely kept the Andalucians at arm's length. Garcia nodded home at the far post in the final stages as Raphinha's deflected cross fell kindly to him to wrap up Barcelona's emphatic victory. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

La Liga: 10-man Barcelona rout Sevilla to maintain title charge

Kylian Mbappe secured Real Madrid a 1-1 draw against rivals Atletico Madrid which kept Los Blancos top of La Liga on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
Julian Alvarez dinked home a controversial first half penalty for Atletico but Mbappe was in the right place at the right time to bundle home early in the second half on his first appearance in the tense derby clash.<o:p></o:p>
Reigning champions Real Madrid lead second-place Atletico by a single point, with Barcelona, third, given the chance to cut the gap on the top two when they face Sevilla on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>
Atletico shaded a close first half but were left holding on in the second period as the hosts stepped up a gear at the Santiago Bernabeu.<o:p></o:p>
"The team is disappointed because they think they deserved more... but we're happy because we're still leaders," Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti told reporters.<o:p></o:p>
"In the second half we had total control, we had a lot of chances."<o:p></o:p>
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Ancelotti opted to deploy his four key attacking players in Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes, in lieu of a more conservative approach.<o:p></o:p>
The star names got stuck in, not always a given in a defensive sense, and the first half was a hard-fought, intense battle with few clear openings for either side.<o:p></o:p>
Atletico were upset when Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos was only booked for an ugly challenge on Pablo Barrios, but it was the hosts who were left raging when referee Cesar Soto Grado pointed to the penalty spot.<o:p></o:p>
Aurelien Tchouameni, covering at centre-back for Madrid with Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao out among others, clumsily trod on Samuel Lino's&nbsp;foot&nbsp;in the box.<o:p></o:p>
After a VAR review Soto Grado awarded a controversial penalty to Madrid's frustration, with the incident happening after the ball had run past the duo.<o:p></o:p>
Los Blancos attacked Spanish refereeing earlier in the week after they were upset by a decision in a shock defeat last weekend, bringing heavy scrutiny on the officials ahead of the derby.<o:p></o:p>
Alvarez took the penalty, the first given against Madrid in La Liga this season, and cheekily executed a Panenka down the middle.<o:p></o:p>
"I can't say I wasn't a bit nervous (with the penalty), but I was sure, I knew what I would do, and it was a great goal for the team," Alvarez told Movistar.<o:p></o:p>
"Corruption in the federation," chanted Real Madrid fans in response to falling behind, buying into their club's stance.<o:p></o:p>
Ancelotti refused to talk about the refereeing but appeared exasperated on the sideline as Soto Grado pointed to the spot.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Madrid battle back<o:p></o:p></h2>
Madrid pulled level early in the second half when Rodrygo broke loose on the right of the box and crossed for Bellingham.<o:p></o:p>
The England international's shot was blocked but Mbappe was on hand to turn home the rebound and score on his first Madrid derby appearance.<o:p></o:p>
Bellingham twice came close to putting Madrid ahead, nodding against the crossbar from Vinicius' cross and then heading straight at Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak from a similar position, kicking the post in frustration.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid played with far more fluidity in the second half and pegged Atletico back.<o:p></o:p>
Oblak made a smart save to deny Vinicius after the Brazilian winger burst through the gap between two Atletico defenders and pulled the trigger from a tight angle.<o:p></o:p>
The Slovenian goalkeeper also made fine saves from Rodrygo and Mbappe to ensure the two sides ended with a point apiece.<o:p></o:p>
"We had a good first half, but we weren't relaxed enough in front of goal to (score) more," said Simeone.<o:p></o:p>
"In the end it was a draw in which both teams think they could have taken more from it."<o:p></o:p>
Real Madrid face another big challenge on Tuesday when they travel to face Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the&nbsp;Champions League&nbsp;play-off round first leg.<o:p></o:p>
Earlier Athletic Bilbao, fourth, beat Girona 3-0 with an Oihan Sancet hat-trick to maintain their&nbsp;Champions League&nbsp;charge.<o:p></o:p>
Antony, on loan from Manchester United, netted his first goal for Real Betis in a 3-2 defeat by Celta Vigo.
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Sports, Football: Real Madrid lead second-place Atletico by a single point, with Barcelona, third, given the chance to cut the gap on the top two when they face Sevilla on Sunday.

Kylian Mbappe secured Real Madrid a 1-1 draw against rivals Atletico Madrid which kept Los Blancos top of La Liga on Saturday. Julian Alvarez dinked home a controversial first half penalty for Atletico but Mbappe was in the right place at the right time to bundle home early in the second half on his first appearance in the tense derby clash. Reigning champions Real Madrid lead second-place Atletico by a single point, with Barcelona, third, given the chance to cut the gap on the top two when they face Sevilla on Sunday. Atletico shaded a close first half but were left holding on in the second period as the hosts stepped up a gear at the Santiago Bernabeu. "The team is disappointed because they think they deserved more... but we're happy because we're still leaders," Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti told reporters. "In the second half we had total control, we had a lot of chances." Also Read | FA Cup: Kevin De Bruyne spares Man City blushes at Leyton Orient Ancelotti opted to deploy his four key attacking players in Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes, in lieu of a more conservative approach. The star names got stuck in, not always a given in a defensive sense, and the first half was a hard-fought, intense battle with few clear openings for either side. Atletico were upset when Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos was only booked for an ugly challenge on Pablo Barrios, but it was the hosts who were left raging when referee Cesar Soto Grado pointed to the penalty spot. Aurelien Tchouameni, covering at centre-back for Madrid with Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao out among others, clumsily trod on Samuel Lino's foot in the box. After a VAR review Soto Grado awarded a controversial penalty to Madrid's frustration, with the incident happening after the ball had run past the duo. Los Blancos attacked Spanish refereeing earlier in the week after they were upset by a decision in a shock defeat last weekend, bringing heavy scrutiny on the officials ahead of the derby. Alvarez took the penalty, the first given against Madrid in La Liga this season, and cheekily executed a Panenka down the middle. "I can't say I wasn't a bit nervous (with the penalty), but I was sure, I knew what I would do, and it was a great goal for the team," Alvarez told Movistar. "Corruption in the federation," chanted Real Madrid fans in response to falling behind, buying into their club's stance. Ancelotti refused to talk about the refereeing but appeared exasperated on the sideline as Soto Grado pointed to the spot. Madrid battle back Madrid pulled level early in the second half when Rodrygo broke loose on the right of the box and crossed for Bellingham. The England international's shot was blocked but Mbappe was on hand to turn home the rebound and score on his first Madrid derby appearance. Bellingham twice came close to putting Madrid ahead, nodding against the crossbar from Vinicius' cross and then heading straight at Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak from a similar position, kicking the post in frustration. Madrid played with far more fluidity in the second half and pegged Atletico back. Oblak made a smart save to deny Vinicius after the Brazilian winger burst through the gap between two Atletico defenders and pulled the trigger from a tight angle. The Slovenian goalkeeper also made fine saves from Rodrygo and Mbappe to ensure the two sides ended with a point apiece. "We had a good first half, but we weren't relaxed enough in front of goal to (score) more," said Simeone. "In the end it was a draw in which both teams think they could have taken more from it." Real Madrid face another big challenge on Tuesday when they travel to face Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the Champions League play-off round first leg. Earlier Athletic Bilbao, fourth, beat Girona 3-0 with an Oihan Sancet hat-trick to maintain their Champions League charge. Antony, on loan from Manchester United, netted his first goal for Real Betis in a 3-2 defeat by Celta Vigo. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mbappe helps Real Madrid play 1-1 draw against Atletico in tense Liga derby

Robert Lewandowski's second-half strike helped Barcelona beat Alaves 1-0 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Real Madrid down to four points.<o:p></o:p>
The Catalans, third, capitalised with a narrow victory after the champions slipped up across town at Espanyol on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona trail second place Atletico by three points before the Rojiblancos face Real Madrid in a tasty derby clash next weekend, which could allow Hansi Flick's side to make up more ground.<o:p></o:p>
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Lewandowski netted from a Lamine Yamal cross to settle a hard-fought match in which Alaves largely frustrated the hosts.<o:p></o:p>
Flick's team struggled to get going in the early afternoon sunlight at the Olympic stadium.<o:p></o:p>
The Catalans created barely anything of note in the first half as Alaves resisted stubbornly.<o:p></o:p>
One mazy Lamine Yamal dribble got home fans excited but there was little else to raise the pulse.<o:p></o:p>
Gavi and Tomas Conechny were both taken off after an ugly collision of heads.<o:p></o:p>
Lewandowski scuffed a shot narrowly wide and a low Pedri effort was comfortably fielded by Alaves goalkeeper Jesus Owono.<o:p></o:p>
Flick brought on Frenkie de Jong and Eric Garcia at half-time to try and speed up Barcelona's game in possession and the team looked sharper as a result.<o:p></o:p>
Lewandowski sent a glancing header agonisingly wide of the far post soon before he broke the deadlock.<o:p></o:p>
The veteran polish forward produced a poacher's finish from close range after Yamal sent a cross-shot spinning towards him at the back post after 61 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
It was Lewandowski's 18th goal of the league campaign, stretching his lead on Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe as the division's top scorer to three.<o:p></o:p>
Barca substitute Ferran Torres's curling effort was pushed away by Owono at full stretch as the Catalans tried to make the game safe.<o:p></o:p>
Flick's team could not produce a second but Alaves, who barely threatened Wojciech Szczesny's goal throughout, were not able to mount a comeback.<o:p></o:p>
Later Sunday fourth-place Athletic Bilbao visit Real Betis among other matches.<o:p></o:p>
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Sports, Football: Hansi Flick's Barcelona, third on the Liga table, capitalised with a narrow victory after the champions slipped up across town at Espanyol on Saturday.

Robert Lewandowski's second-half strike helped Barcelona beat Alaves 1-0 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Real Madrid down to four points. The Catalans, third, capitalised with a narrow victory after the champions slipped up across town at Espanyol on Saturday. Barcelona trail second place Atletico by three points before the Rojiblancos face Real Madrid in a tasty derby clash next weekend, which could allow Hansi Flick's side to make up more ground. Also read | Manchester United complete Patrick Dorgu's signing, first under Amorim Lewandowski netted from a Lamine Yamal cross to settle a hard-fought match in which Alaves largely frustrated the hosts. Flick's team struggled to get going in the early afternoon sunlight at the Olympic stadium. The Catalans created barely anything of note in the first half as Alaves resisted stubbornly. One mazy Lamine Yamal dribble got home fans excited but there was little else to raise the pulse. Gavi and Tomas Conechny were both taken off after an ugly collision of heads. Lewandowski scuffed a shot narrowly wide and a low Pedri effort was comfortably fielded by Alaves goalkeeper Jesus Owono. Flick brought on Frenkie de Jong and Eric Garcia at half-time to try and speed up Barcelona's game in possession and the team looked sharper as a result. Lewandowski sent a glancing header agonisingly wide of the far post soon before he broke the deadlock. The veteran polish forward produced a poacher's finish from close range after Yamal sent a cross-shot spinning towards him at the back post after 61 minutes. It was Lewandowski's 18th goal of the league campaign, stretching his lead on Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe as the division's top scorer to three. Barca substitute Ferran Torres's curling effort was pushed away by Owono at full stretch as the Catalans tried to make the game safe. Flick's team could not produce a second but Alaves, who barely threatened Wojciech Szczesny's goal throughout, were not able to mount a comeback. Later Sunday fourth-place Athletic Bilbao visit Real Betis among other matches. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lewandowski’s second-half strike helps Barcelona beat Alaves to keep Liga hope alive

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a> stumbled to a shock 1-0 defeat at struggling Espanyol on Sunday which left them leading La Liga by a single point.
Carlos Romero's 85th minute strike snatched victory for the relegation-battling hosts, provisionally 17th.&nbsp;Atletico Madrid pulled within a point of Los Blancos with a 2-0 win against Mallorca earlier, ahead of next weekend's crunch derby clash at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid were left furious after Romero was only booked for a cynical foul on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kylian-mbappe">Kylian Mbappe</a> before going on to net the winner.&nbsp;However, Carlo Ancelotti's side played far within themselves and did not do enough to take anything from what seemed on paper an inviting fixture.
"Espanyol played a very good game in my opinion, they defended very well, they did what they had to do. Could we have done more? Yes," Ancelotti told reporters.
The Italian coach was angry about the decision not to send off Romero.
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"This foul, the decision the referee and VAR took was inexplicable, everyone saw it," continued the coach.&nbsp;"It's important to protect the players. It was a clear foul, a very ugly tackle, lucky there's no serious injury.
"To us it's inexplicable that they didn't send him off."&nbsp;Romero admitted he felt bad about scything down the French superstar.
"I knew Kylian is impossible to stop when he's running, I stopped him how I could, it was a bit ugly," Romero told DAZN.
"I didn't like doing it and I said sorry. That's it and there's no more to it."
Espanyol largely kept the Spanish and European champions at bay in the first half.&nbsp;Real Madrid were dealt a blow when Antonio Rudiger limped off in the first half, with their Champions League play-off tie against Manchester City less than a fortnight away.&nbsp;Vinicius Junior found the net with Madrid's only chance but it was ruled out after Mbappe was adjudged to have fouled his marker.
Jofre Carreras had a low shot saved by Thibaut Courtois at the other end on a rare Espanyol attack.
Madrid looked sharper at the start of the second half and Espanyol stopper Joan Garcia saved from Jude Bellingham and then Mbappe struck the post from a tight angle.
Los Blancos were furious when Romero was only booked for a cynical slide tackle from behind to hack down Mbappe as he broke over the halfway line.&nbsp;Rodrygo jinked away from Romero before firing into the side netting and had another effort saved, while Garcia tipped away a vicious Mbappe strike as Madrid turned the screw.&nbsp;The visitors were shocked by a swift Espanyol counter-attack which led to the breakthrough, with Omar El Hilali crossing for Romero to volley home at the back post.
Los Blancos did not create much danger in seven minutes of added time and Espanyol's fans celebrated with abandon when Mbappe lashed over a late effort to end the game.
"This win is so important for us, we had to suffer... we knew we had to do it in front of our fans," added Romero.
Atletico Madrid secured a comfortable win over Mallorca to put the pressure on, ahead of Real's match.
Samuel Lino slid home in the 26th minute after a strong driving run by Giuliano Simeone, son of Atletico's coach Diego Simeone.&nbsp;Antoine Griezmann, who started the game on the bench, produced a superb lobbed finish to net the second in stoppage time and delight the Metropolitano stadium.
Atletico coach Simeone was able to celebrate his 500th La Liga match with the three points.
"I'm very happy for this journey, no doubt... it makes me very happy," he told reporters.&nbsp;The Rojiblancos dominated the first half with Julian Alvarez impressing and Alexander Sorloth going close before Lino sent them ahead.
Mallorca, seventh, forged some chances of their own after the break in a tighter second period which was finally settled when Griezmann struck with a delightful chip.&nbsp;On Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona">Barcelona</a>, third, host Alaves as they try to keep on the tail of the top two.
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Sports, Football: Atletico Madrid pulled within a point of Los Blancos with a 2-0 win against Mallorca earlier, ahead of next weekend's crunch derby clash at the Santiago Bernabeu

Real Madrid stumbled to a shock 1-0 defeat at struggling Espanyol on Sunday which left them leading La Liga by a single point. Carlos Romero's 85th minute strike snatched victory for the relegation-battling hosts, provisionally 17th. Atletico Madrid pulled within a point of Los Blancos with a 2-0 win against Mallorca earlier, ahead of next weekend's crunch derby clash at the Santiago Bernabeu. Real Madrid were left furious after Romero was only booked for a cynical foul on Kylian Mbappe before going on to net the winner. However, Carlo Ancelotti's side played far within themselves and did not do enough to take anything from what seemed on paper an inviting fixture. "Espanyol played a very good game in my opinion, they defended very well, they did what they had to do. Could we have done more? Yes," Ancelotti told reporters. The Italian coach was angry about the decision not to send off Romero. Also Read: Premier League: Mohamed Salah's controversial penalty fires Liverpool nine points clear "This foul, the decision the referee and VAR took was inexplicable, everyone saw it," continued the coach. "It's important to protect the players. It was a clear foul, a very ugly tackle, lucky there's no serious injury. "To us it's inexplicable that they didn't send him off." Romero admitted he felt bad about scything down the French superstar. "I knew Kylian is impossible to stop when he's running, I stopped him how I could, it was a bit ugly," Romero told DAZN. "I didn't like doing it and I said sorry. That's it and there's no more to it." Espanyol largely kept the Spanish and European champions at bay in the first half. Real Madrid were dealt a blow when Antonio Rudiger limped off in the first half, with their Champions League play-off tie against Manchester City less than a fortnight away. Vinicius Junior found the net with Madrid's only chance but it was ruled out after Mbappe was adjudged to have fouled his marker. Jofre Carreras had a low shot saved by Thibaut Courtois at the other end on a rare Espanyol attack. Madrid looked sharper at the start of the second half and Espanyol stopper Joan Garcia saved from Jude Bellingham and then Mbappe struck the post from a tight angle. Los Blancos were furious when Romero was only booked for a cynical slide tackle from behind to hack down Mbappe as he broke over the halfway line. Rodrygo jinked away from Romero before firing into the side netting and had another effort saved, while Garcia tipped away a vicious Mbappe strike as Madrid turned the screw. The visitors were shocked by a swift Espanyol counter-attack which led to the breakthrough, with Omar El Hilali crossing for Romero to volley home at the back post. Los Blancos did not create much danger in seven minutes of added time and Espanyol's fans celebrated with abandon when Mbappe lashed over a late effort to end the game. "This win is so important for us, we had to suffer... we knew we had to do it in front of our fans," added Romero. Atletico Madrid secured a comfortable win over Mallorca to put the pressure on, ahead of Real's match. Samuel Lino slid home in the 26th minute after a strong driving run by Giuliano Simeone, son of Atletico's coach Diego Simeone. Antoine Griezmann, who started the game on the bench, produced a superb lobbed finish to net the second in stoppage time and delight the Metropolitano stadium. Atletico coach Simeone was able to celebrate his 500th La Liga match with the three points. "I'm very happy for this journey, no doubt... it makes me very happy," he told reporters. The Rojiblancos dominated the first half with Julian Alvarez impressing and Alexander Sorloth going close before Lino sent them ahead. Mallorca, seventh, forged some chances of their own after the break in a tighter second period which was finally settled when Griezmann struck with a delightful chip. On Sunday Barcelona, third, host Alaves as they try to keep on the tail of the top two. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

La Liga: Real Madrid suffers shock defeat against Espanyol

Barcelona blew away a miserable Valencia 7-1 on Sunday to get back on track in La Liga with a ruthless victory.<o:p></o:p>
Fermin Lopez struck twice for the Catalans in the first half, along with goals from Frenkie de Jong, Ferran Torres and Raphinha which gave Barcelona a commanding five-goal lead at the break.<o:p></o:p>
Hugo Duro pulled one back early in the second half before Robert Lewandowski pounced for Barca, followed by a Cesar Tarrega own goal, with the third-placed hosts earning just their second win in their last nine league matches.<o:p></o:p>
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Hansi Flick's side trail La Liga leaders Real Madrid by seven points and second-placed Atletico Madrid by three.<o:p></o:p>
"I think in La Liga we were in a bad dynamic and we needed this win, it's very important and now we have to keep fighting," Lopez told DAZN. "The coach says everyone in the team is important, and whoever is playing we have to be up to it -- that's what being a team is and that's how we can compete for the title. <o:p></o:p>
"There's still a long way to go and we will fight until the end."<o:p></o:p>
Flick shuffled his pack against Valencia in order to spark a response given the club's poor domestic form.<o:p></o:p>
The coach began with Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo on the bench, while Pedri was absent because of a stomach bug, leading to De Jong, Ferran Torres and the superb Lopez all starting.<o:p></o:p>
It took just three minutes for De Jong to open the scoring, with teenage star Lamine Yamal crossing for him in the area virtually unmarked, and he fired home.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona soon had their second, with Torres tucking home from Alejandro Balde's cross, in similar fashion to the first goal but from the opposite flank.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts moved three goals ahead in the 14th minute when Lopez clipped a fine ball over the top for Raphinha to run onto.<o:p></o:p>
The Brazilian winger rounded Giorgi Mamardashvili and rolled home for his 12th league goal of the season.<o:p></o:p>
Valencia, without the suspended Cristhian Mosquera, were struggling badly in defence and Barcelona broke in seemingly at will.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez collected a perfectly measured Pau Cubarsi long pass for the fourth and although it was initially ruled offside, the decision was corrected by VAR.<o:p></o:p>
Valencia thought they had won a penalty when Wojciech Szczesny brought down Hugo Duro but play was eventually brought back for a foul on Jules Kounde after another video review.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez rattled home the fifth on the volley before half-time when Raphinha's effort hit the post and fell nicely for him with the goalkeeper stranded.
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Sports, Football: Lopez struck twice for Barcelona in the first half, along with goals from De Jong, Torres and Raphinha, giving them a commanding five-goal lead at the break.

Barcelona blew away a miserable Valencia 7-1 on Sunday to get back on track in La Liga with a ruthless victory. Fermin Lopez struck twice for the Catalans in the first half, along with goals from Frenkie de Jong, Ferran Torres and Raphinha which gave Barcelona a commanding five-goal lead at the break. Hugo Duro pulled one back early in the second half before Robert Lewandowski pounced for Barca, followed by a Cesar Tarrega own goal, with the third-placed hosts earning just their second win in their last nine league matches. Also read | Premier League: Pressure mounts on Ange Postecoglou after Leicester stun Tottenham Hotpsur Hansi Flick's side trail La Liga leaders Real Madrid by seven points and second-placed Atletico Madrid by three. "I think in La Liga we were in a bad dynamic and we needed this win, it's very important and now we have to keep fighting," Lopez told DAZN. "The coach says everyone in the team is important, and whoever is playing we have to be up to it -- that's what being a team is and that's how we can compete for the title. "There's still a long way to go and we will fight until the end." Flick shuffled his pack against Valencia in order to spark a response given the club's poor domestic form. The coach began with Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo on the bench, while Pedri was absent because of a stomach bug, leading to De Jong, Ferran Torres and the superb Lopez all starting. It took just three minutes for De Jong to open the scoring, with teenage star Lamine Yamal crossing for him in the area virtually unmarked, and he fired home. Barcelona soon had their second, with Torres tucking home from Alejandro Balde's cross, in similar fashion to the first goal but from the opposite flank. The hosts moved three goals ahead in the 14th minute when Lopez clipped a fine ball over the top for Raphinha to run onto. The Brazilian winger rounded Giorgi Mamardashvili and rolled home for his 12th league goal of the season. Valencia, without the suspended Cristhian Mosquera, were struggling badly in defence and Barcelona broke in seemingly at will. Lopez collected a perfectly measured Pau Cubarsi long pass for the fourth and although it was initially ruled offside, the decision was corrected by VAR. Valencia thought they had won a penalty when Wojciech Szczesny brought down Hugo Duro but play was eventually brought back for a foul on Jules Kounde after another video review. Lopez rattled home the fifth on the volley before half-time when Raphinha's effort hit the post and fell nicely for him with the goalkeeper stranded. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona hit seven past miserable Valencia to find La Liga form

Barcelona must harness the euphoria of their thrilling Champions League victory at Benfica to halt a miserable run of La Liga form against an improving Valencia side on Sunday. The Catalan giants have just one victory in their last eight league games and have dropped seven points behind champions and current leaders Real Madrid.<o:p></o:p>
Valencia visit the Olympic stadium on the back of an impressive 1-0 home win against Real Sociedad last weekend, with the team already looking stronger under new coach Carlos Corberan.<o:p></o:p>
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The former West Bromwich Albion coach was appointed on Christmas day, and his side came close to taking points off Madrid in a narrow 2-1 defeat in his first outing.<o:p></o:p>
Los Che have also won two cup games in January to reach the quarter-finals, where they will also face Barcelona.<o:p></o:p>
Their win over Real Sociedad helped them climb off the bottom of the table to 19th, four points from safety.<o:p></o:p>
Corberan and Co face a Barcelona side that has scored five goals in three of their last four matches, but their only league game in that period finished in a frustrating 1-1 draw at Getafe last Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
Valencia will take note of how the Madrid minnows' low block defence caused Hansi Flick's side a great deal of difficulty to break down and will likely follow suit.<o:p></o:p>
Flick said his team also had to work on their defensive mistakes against Benfica ahead of the Valencia clash.<o:p></o:p>
"It's important we speak about this, because the next opponents will look at this match and we have to make it better, and we will do that," said the German coach. "We will train on this, if it's possible, or we can (discuss it) in the meeting, we can do some technical things.<o:p></o:p>
"We analyse everything and we'll show (the players) what we have to do better."<o:p></o:p>
La Liga's top goalscorer Robert Lewandowski netted twice in midweek from the penalty spot but has only produced one goal in his last five league matches.<o:p></o:p>
Getafe also managed to keep Barca's teenage starlet Lamine Yamal quiet, which few other sides have managed this season.<o:p></o:p>
Corberan called on his Valencia team to keep improving ahead of the trip to Barcelona.<o:p></o:p>
"We have to keep growing, I'm going to get the most out of every game we play," said the Valencia coach. "I'm not here to say that we have to grow for the sake of it, it's a reality of football.<o:p></o:p>
"The team is increasing in terms of personality, dedication, commitment and it's very important to consolidate that."<o:p></o:p>
Valencia have only been relegated once in the club's history, in 1986, and were promoted the following year.<o:p></o:p>
Their improvement under Corberan will be confirmed if they can take even a point from title challengers Barcelona, which could prove vital come the end of the season.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

Sports, Football: The Catalan giants have just one victory in their last eight league games and have dropped seven points behind champions and current leaders Real Madrid.

Barcelona must harness the euphoria of their thrilling Champions League victory at Benfica to halt a miserable run of La Liga form against an improving Valencia side on Sunday. The Catalan giants have just one victory in their last eight league games and have dropped seven points behind champions and current leaders Real Madrid. Valencia visit the Olympic stadium on the back of an impressive 1-0 home win against Real Sociedad last weekend, with the team already looking stronger under new coach Carlos Corberan. Also read | PL giants Manchester United and Spurs prevail in Europa League outings The former West Bromwich Albion coach was appointed on Christmas day, and his side came close to taking points off Madrid in a narrow 2-1 defeat in his first outing. Los Che have also won two cup games in January to reach the quarter-finals, where they will also face Barcelona. Their win over Real Sociedad helped them climb off the bottom of the table to 19th, four points from safety. Corberan and Co face a Barcelona side that has scored five goals in three of their last four matches, but their only league game in that period finished in a frustrating 1-1 draw at Getafe last Saturday. Valencia will take note of how the Madrid minnows' low block defence caused Hansi Flick's side a great deal of difficulty to break down and will likely follow suit. Flick said his team also had to work on their defensive mistakes against Benfica ahead of the Valencia clash. "It's important we speak about this, because the next opponents will look at this match and we have to make it better, and we will do that," said the German coach. "We will train on this, if it's possible, or we can (discuss it) in the meeting, we can do some technical things. "We analyse everything and we'll show (the players) what we have to do better." La Liga's top goalscorer Robert Lewandowski netted twice in midweek from the penalty spot but has only produced one goal in his last five league matches. Getafe also managed to keep Barca's teenage starlet Lamine Yamal quiet, which few other sides have managed this season. Corberan called on his Valencia team to keep improving ahead of the trip to Barcelona. "We have to keep growing, I'm going to get the most out of every game we play," said the Valencia coach. "I'm not here to say that we have to grow for the sake of it, it's a reality of football. "The team is increasing in terms of personality, dedication, commitment and it's very important to consolidate that." Valencia have only been relegated once in the club's history, in 1986, and were promoted the following year. Their improvement under Corberan will be confirmed if they can take even a point from title challengers Barcelona, which could prove vital come the end of the season. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Preview: Barcelona hope to end horrid Liga form against improving Valencia

La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have rejected Barcelona&rsquo;s registration of attacker Dani Olmo as reported on Saturday (Jan 4). Olmo, a big-money signing from RB Leipzig in the summer is now eligible to play for Barcelona just six months after signing for the Spanish giants. As things stand, Barcelona will challenge the call in court hoping to re-register their summer acquisition.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ia5q0b-cwez7f62-ryftcpkq">
🚨⛔️ OFFICIAL: La Liga and Spanish Federation RFEF have jointly decided to REJECT Dani Olmo and Pau Victor's registrations for Barcelona. Barcelona will go to court. ⚠️ <a href="https://t.co/eW1Y8OHNir">pic.twitter.com/eW1Y8OHNir</a>
&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1875527672522289488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona fail with Olmo's registration</h2>
Having missed the deadline of Dec 31 to prove they were compliant with LaLiga's financial fair play (FFP) regulations, Barcelona were always in danger of missing out on their key asset who was signed for &euro;60 million ($62m). Barcelona have faced FFP issues in recent years, which also led to the release of Lionel Messi in 2021.
According to La Liga, Barca provided the necessary documentation to have their spending limit for the season extended on Friday, but it came too late for Olmo and Pau Victor, who had their registrations cancelled on Wednesday.
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona to appeal decision</h2>
Just minutes after the decision came, Barcelona confirmed they will go to the Administrative Court of Sport (CSD) for Olmo and Victor's registration cases. Barcelona are confident they can raise enough money in the coming days to re-register the players with reports stating they are willing to sell VIP seats on a multi-year deal in their new stadium which is under construction.
Barcelona&rsquo;s financial troubles will also take a toll on their summer and winter transfer window spending. The club&rsquo;s main priority will be to sign players on a free transfer while registering them for low salaries.
Interestingly, this was also the case at the start of this season where Barcelona had to shift İlkay G&uuml;ndoğan out to lower the salary cap. G&uuml;ndoğan&rsquo;s high made it impossible for Barcelona to register a new player, meaning their hands were tied in the deal to send G&uuml;ndoğan back to Manchester City.

Sports, Football:  Dani Olmo, a big-money signing from RB Leipzig in the summer is now eligible to play for Barcelona just six months after signing for the Spanish giants. 

La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have rejected Barcelona’s registration of attacker Dani Olmo as reported on Saturday (Jan 4). Olmo, a big-money signing from RB Leipzig in the summer is now eligible to play for Barcelona just six months after signing for the Spanish giants. As things stand, Barcelona will challenge the call in court hoping to re-register their summer acquisition. 🚨⛔️ OFFICIAL: La Liga and Spanish Federation RFEF have jointly decided to REJECT Dani Olmo and Pau Victor's registrations for Barcelona. Barcelona will go to court. ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/eW1Y8OHNir — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 4, 2025 Barcelona fail with Olmo's registration Having missed the deadline of Dec 31 to prove they were compliant with LaLiga's financial fair play (FFP) regulations, Barcelona were always in danger of missing out on their key asset who was signed for €60 million ($62m). Barcelona have faced FFP issues in recent years, which also led to the release of Lionel Messi in 2021. According to La Liga, Barca provided the necessary documentation to have their spending limit for the season extended on Friday, but it came too late for Olmo and Pau Victor, who had their registrations cancelled on Wednesday. ALSO READ | BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG – WATCH Barcelona to appeal decision Just minutes after the decision came, Barcelona confirmed they will go to the Administrative Court of Sport (CSD) for Olmo and Victor's registration cases. Barcelona are confident they can raise enough money in the coming days to re-register the players with reports stating they are willing to sell VIP seats on a multi-year deal in their new stadium which is under construction. Barcelona’s financial troubles will also take a toll on their summer and winter transfer window spending. The club’s main priority will be to sign players on a free transfer while registering them for low salaries. Interestingly, this was also the case at the start of this season where Barcelona had to shift İlkay Gündoğan out to lower the salary cap. Gündoğan’s high made it impossible for Barcelona to register a new player, meaning their hands were tied in the deal to send Gündoğan back to Manchester City.

La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration

Jude Bellingham made amends for missing a penalty by snatching 10-man Real Madrid a 2-1 victory at Valencia on Friday to take them top of La Liga after winger Vinicius Junior was sent off. <o:p></o:p>
Huro Duro sent the hosts ahead in the first half of a feisty clash but Luka Modric levelled for Carlo Ancelotti's side before Bellingham pounced in stoppage time.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohamed-salah-hints-at-liverpool-exit-says-my-last-year-at-the-club-8589390" rel="dofollow">Mohamed Salah hints at Liverpool exit, says 'my last year at the club'</a>
Vinicius, who squared off with Valencia supporters who racially abused him at the same stadium in 2022, was dismissed for shoving Los Che goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the back of the neck with little over 10 minutes remaining.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid were trailing at the time but Bellingham set up veteran midfielder Modric to level in the 85th minute and spark a superb comeback.<o:p></o:p>
Bellingham broke in to strike in the 96th minute after a Valencia defensive error, sending Madrid two points clear of Atletico Madrid at the top of the table, having played a game more than Diego Simeone's team.<o:p></o:p>
"(Bellingham had a) great game, he didn't dip after the missed penalty, it gave him extra motivation," said Ancelotti. "He made an extraordinary effort... (scoring) was a reward for him for the game he had."<o:p></o:p>
Ancelotti said he did not think Vinicius' push deserved a red card and was surprised by his team's poor start to the match.<o:p></o:p>
"We didn't think it was a red card... he went off and the team reacted, to the red, the missed penalty.<o:p></o:p>
"It's hard to explain how badly we did in the first half and how good we did in the second, even with 10 men.<o:p></o:p>
"It's three very important points, deserved, but we can't show these two sides (of ourselves)."<o:p></o:p>
Los Blancos' trip to face Valencia was postponed at the end of October after devastating flooding in the region on Spain's east coast.<o:p></o:p>
Sitting 19th, Valencia appointed Carlos Corberan to replace former coach Ruben Baraja during the winter break, pinching the Spaniard from English Championship club West Bromwich Albion.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts made a strong start, shackling Madrid's star-studded attack before making the breakthrough after 27 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
Dimitri Foulquier cut the ball back for Javi Guerra, whose shot was superbly saved by Thibaut Courtois but Duro turned the rebound into the empty net.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, football: Madrid were trailing at the time but Bellingham set up veteran midfielder Modric to level in the 85th minute and spark a superb comeback.

Jude Bellingham made amends for missing a penalty by snatching 10-man Real Madrid a 2-1 victory at Valencia on Friday to take them top of La Liga after winger Vinicius Junior was sent off. Huro Duro sent the hosts ahead in the first half of a feisty clash but Luka Modric levelled for Carlo Ancelotti's side before Bellingham pounced in stoppage time. Also read | Mohamed Salah hints at Liverpool exit, says 'my last year at the club' Vinicius, who squared off with Valencia supporters who racially abused him at the same stadium in 2022, was dismissed for shoving Los Che goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the back of the neck with little over 10 minutes remaining. Madrid were trailing at the time but Bellingham set up veteran midfielder Modric to level in the 85th minute and spark a superb comeback. Bellingham broke in to strike in the 96th minute after a Valencia defensive error, sending Madrid two points clear of Atletico Madrid at the top of the table, having played a game more than Diego Simeone's team. "(Bellingham had a) great game, he didn't dip after the missed penalty, it gave him extra motivation," said Ancelotti. "He made an extraordinary effort... (scoring) was a reward for him for the game he had." Ancelotti said he did not think Vinicius' push deserved a red card and was surprised by his team's poor start to the match. "We didn't think it was a red card... he went off and the team reacted, to the red, the missed penalty. "It's hard to explain how badly we did in the first half and how good we did in the second, even with 10 men. "It's three very important points, deserved, but we can't show these two sides (of ourselves)." Los Blancos' trip to face Valencia was postponed at the end of October after devastating flooding in the region on Spain's east coast. Sitting 19th, Valencia appointed Carlos Corberan to replace former coach Ruben Baraja during the winter break, pinching the Spaniard from English Championship club West Bromwich Albion. The hosts made a strong start, shackling Madrid's star-studded attack before making the breakthrough after 27 minutes. Dimitri Foulquier cut the ball back for Javi Guerra, whose shot was superbly saved by Thibaut Courtois but Duro turned the rebound into the empty net. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bellingham guides Madrid to top of Liga table after Vinicius' send off against Valencia

Madrid, Spain
Kylian Mbappe scored a screamer and set up another goal as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 4-2 on Saturday to move second in La Liga above stuttering rivals Barcelona.
After Atletico Madrid beat Barca on Saturday to claim top spot at Christmas, Carlo Ancelotti's side also took advantage with a comfortable home win which leaves them a point behind the leaders.
Madrid coach Ancelotti said ahead of Sevilla's visit that Mbappe's adaptation period had ended following his summer switch from Paris Saint-Germain and the French forward proved the coach right with a strong performance and his 14th goal of the season across all competitions.
Fede Valverde also netted a brilliant effort from range, with Rodrygo Goes and Brahim Diaz on the scoresheet for the hosts too.
Isaac Romero and Dodi Lukebakio scored for Sevilla, although they were thoroughly outplayed on veteran defender Jesus Navas' final game for the club.
"I think that we know each other better, my arrival changed a lot of things, and now, as the coach said, the adaptation is over and I feel very good in the team," Mbappe told Real Madrid TV.
"We can see on the pitch that I click better with my team-mates and now we're all playing better."
Mbappe, back after a brief absence with a thigh injury, scored for Madrid in midweek as they won the Intercontinental Cup.
It was welcome relief for the forward after missing two penalties in recent weeks against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, as well as suffering criticism for his form.
"I know I've got much more in my legs than I'm showing, but in the last games I've played better," Mbappe added.
"The Bilbao game was good for me, I hit the bottom, I missed a penalty and it was a moment to realise that I have to give everything for this shirt and show my personality."
With Vinicius Junior suspended, Mbappe took the reins and broke the deadlock in the 10th minute as Madrid brought the ball out from the back and worked it to Rodrygo on the left flank.
The Brazilian squared to Mbappe on the edge of the area, who took one touch to control, another to set himself and with his third, smashed a fierce effort past the helpless Alvaro Fernandez.
Madrid's second, 10 minutes later, was even better, with Valverde firing a screamer into the top corner from over 30 yards out after a short corner routine.
Ancelotti's side were in full flow and the third followed in the 34th minute when Lucas Vazquez crossed for Rodrygo, who finished with aplomb.
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<h2>Navas bows out</h2>
Sevilla hit back within a minute, with Romero nodding home from Juanlu Sanchez's cross after good work by Dodi Lukebakio.
Sevilla came out strongly in the second half and Romero should have added a second but fired straight at Thibaut Courtois when well placed.
Instead it was Madrid who stretched their lead, with Mbappe dinking a superb pass through for Diaz to finish clinically.
Sevilla brought on Navas after the hour mark and he was applauded by the Santiago Bernabeu, with this his 705th and final appearance for the club, far more than any other player.
Madrid and Sevilla players together gave the retiring Spanish great -- a World Cup winner in 2010 and two-time Euros champion -- a guard of honour at the start of the game.
Navas, 39, won four Europa Leagues and two Copa del Rey trophies with Sevilla, but his final appearance ended in disappointment for the Andalusians, who were outplayed in the Spanish capital.
Fernandez saved from Rodrygo after Mbappe rounded the goalkeeper and passed the ball back to his Brazilian strike-partner, as Madrid looked for a fifth.
Lukebakio pulled one back late on for Sevilla as Madrid were able to finish an impressive year, in which they became Spanish and European champions, with a good result.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

After Atletico Madrid beat Barca on Saturday to claim top spot at Christmas, Carlo Ancelotti's side also took advantage with a comfortable home win which leaves them a point behind the leaders.



Madrid, Spain Kylian Mbappe scored a screamer and set up another goal as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 4-2 on Saturday to move second in La Liga above stuttering rivals Barcelona. After Atletico Madrid beat Barca on Saturday to claim top spot at Christmas, Carlo Ancelotti's side also took advantage with a comfortable home win which leaves them a point behind the leaders. Madrid coach Ancelotti said ahead of Sevilla's visit that Mbappe's adaptation period had ended following his summer switch from Paris Saint-Germain and the French forward proved the coach right with a strong performance and his 14th goal of the season across all competitions. Fede Valverde also netted a brilliant effort from range, with Rodrygo Goes and Brahim Diaz on the scoresheet for the hosts too. Isaac Romero and Dodi Lukebakio scored for Sevilla, although they were thoroughly outplayed on veteran defender Jesus Navas' final game for the club. "I think that we know each other better, my arrival changed a lot of things, and now, as the coach said, the adaptation is over and I feel very good in the team," Mbappe told Real Madrid TV. "We can see on the pitch that I click better with my team-mates and now we're all playing better." Mbappe, back after a brief absence with a thigh injury, scored for Madrid in midweek as they won the Intercontinental Cup. It was welcome relief for the forward after missing two penalties in recent weeks against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, as well as suffering criticism for his form. "I know I've got much more in my legs than I'm showing, but in the last games I've played better," Mbappe added. "The Bilbao game was good for me, I hit the bottom, I missed a penalty and it was a moment to realise that I have to give everything for this shirt and show my personality." With Vinicius Junior suspended, Mbappe took the reins and broke the deadlock in the 10th minute as Madrid brought the ball out from the back and worked it to Rodrygo on the left flank. The Brazilian squared to Mbappe on the edge of the area, who took one touch to control, another to set himself and with his third, smashed a fierce effort past the helpless Alvaro Fernandez. Madrid's second, 10 minutes later, was even better, with Valverde firing a screamer into the top corner from over 30 yards out after a short corner routine. Ancelotti's side were in full flow and the third followed in the 34th minute when Lucas Vazquez crossed for Rodrygo, who finished with aplomb. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: UAE set to host India's matches as ICC finalises venue for hybrid model - Report Navas bows out Sevilla hit back within a minute, with Romero nodding home from Juanlu Sanchez's cross after good work by Dodi Lukebakio. Sevilla came out strongly in the second half and Romero should have added a second but fired straight at Thibaut Courtois when well placed. Instead it was Madrid who stretched their lead, with Mbappe dinking a superb pass through for Diaz to finish clinically. Sevilla brought on Navas after the hour mark and he was applauded by the Santiago Bernabeu, with this his 705th and final appearance for the club, far more than any other player. Madrid and Sevilla players together gave the retiring Spanish great -- a World Cup winner in 2010 and two-time Euros champion -- a guard of honour at the start of the game. Navas, 39, won four Europa Leagues and two Copa del Rey trophies with Sevilla, but his final appearance ended in disappointment for the Andalusians, who were outplayed in the Spanish capital. Fernandez saved from Rodrygo after Mbappe rounded the goalkeeper and passed the ball back to his Brazilian strike-partner, as Madrid looked for a fifth. Lukebakio pulled one back late on for Sevilla as Madrid were able to finish an impressive year, in which they became Spanish and European champions, with a good result. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

La Liga: Kylian Mbappe on target as Real Madrid down Sevilla 4-2

Kylian Mbappe scored a screamer and set up another goal as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 4-2 on Saturday to move second in La Liga above stuttering rivals Barcelona.

After Atletico Madrid beat Barca on Saturday to claim top spot at Christmas, Carlo Ancelotti's side also took advantage with a comfortable home win which leaves them a point behind the leaders.

Madrid coach Ancelotti said ahead of Sevilla's visit that Mbappe's adaptation period had ended following his summer switch from Paris Saint-Germain and the French forward proved the coach right with a strong performance and his 14th goal of the season across all competitions.

Fede Valverde also netted a brilliant effort from range, with Rodrygo Goes and Brahim Diaz on the scoresheet for the hosts too.

Isaac Romero and Dodi Lukebakio scored for Sevilla, although they were thoroughly outplayed on veteran defender Jesus Navas' final game for the club.

"I think that we know each other better, my arrival changed a lot of things, and now, as the coach said, the adaptation is over and I feel very good in the team," Mbappe told Real Madrid TV.

"We can see on the pitch that I click better with my team-mates and now we're all playing better."

Mbappe, back after a brief absence with a thigh injury, scored for Madrid in midweek as they won the Intercontinental Cup.

It was welcome relief for the forward after missing two penalties in recent weeks against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, as well as suffering criticism for his form.

"I know I've got much more in my legs than I'm showing, but in the last games I've played better," Mbappe added.

"The Bilbao game was good for me, I hit the bottom, I missed a penalty and it was a moment to realise that I have to give everything for this shirt and show my personality."

With Vinicius Junior suspended, Mbappe took the reins and broke the deadlock in the 10th minute as Madrid brought the ball out from the back and worked it to Rodrygo on the left flank.

The Brazilian squared to Mbappe on the edge of the area, who took one touch to control, another to set himself and with his third, smashed a fierce effort past the helpless Alvaro Fernandez.

Madrid's second, 10 minutes later, was even better, with Valverde firing a screamer into the top corner from over 30 yards out after a short corner routine.

Ancelotti's side were in full flow and the third followed in the 34th minute when Lucas Vazquez crossed for Rodrygo, who finished with aplomb.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-uae-set-to-host-indias-matches-as-icc-finalises-venue-for-hybrid-model-report-785958">Champions Trophy 2025: UAE set to host India's matches as ICC finalises venue for hybrid model - Report</a>

<h2>Navas bows out</h2>

Sevilla hit back within a minute, with Romero nodding home from Juanlu Sanchez's cross after good work by Dodi Lukebakio.

Sevilla came out strongly in the second half and Romero should have added a second but fired straight at Thibaut Courtois when well placed.

Instead it was Madrid who stretched their lead, with Mbappe dinking a superb pass through for Diaz to finish clinically.

Sevilla brought on Navas after the hour mark and he was applauded by the Santiago Bernabeu, with this his 705th and final appearance for the club, far more than any other player.

Madrid and Sevilla players together gave the retiring Spanish great -- a World Cup winner in 2010 and two-time Euros champion -- a guard of honour at the start of the game.

Navas, 39, won four Europa Leagues and two Copa del Rey trophies with Sevilla, but his final appearance ended in disappointment for the Andalusians, who were outplayed in the Spanish capital.

Fernandez saved from Rodrygo after Mbappe rounded the goalkeeper and passed the ball back to his Brazilian strike-partner, as Madrid looked for a fifth.

Lukebakio pulled one back late on for Sevilla as Madrid were able to finish an impressive year, in which they became Spanish and European champions, with a good result.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kylian Mbappe scored a screamer and set up another goal as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 4-2 on Saturday to move second in La Liga above stuttering rivals Barcelona.

Kylian Mbappe scored a screamer and set up another goal as Real Madrid thrashed Sevilla 4-2 on Saturday to move second in La Liga above stuttering rivals Barcelona. After Atletico Madrid beat Barca on Saturday to claim top spot at Christmas, Carlo Ancelotti's side also took advantage with a comfortable home win which leaves them a point behind the leaders. Madrid coach Ancelotti said ahead of Sevilla's visit that Mbappe's adaptation period had ended following his summer switch from Paris Saint-Germain and the French forward proved the coach right with a strong performance and his 14th goal of the season across all competitions. Fede Valverde also netted a brilliant effort from range, with Rodrygo Goes and Brahim Diaz on the scoresheet for the hosts too. Isaac Romero and Dodi Lukebakio scored for Sevilla, although they were thoroughly outplayed on veteran defender Jesus Navas' final game for the club. "I think that we know each other better, my arrival changed a lot of things, and now, as the coach said, the adaptation is over and I feel very good in the team," Mbappe told Real Madrid TV. "We can see on the pitch that I click better with my team-mates and now we're all playing better." Mbappe, back after a brief absence with a thigh injury, scored for Madrid in midweek as they won the Intercontinental Cup. It was welcome relief for the forward after missing two penalties in recent weeks against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, as well as suffering criticism for his form. "I know I've got much more in my legs than I'm showing, but in the last games I've played better," Mbappe added. "The Bilbao game was good for me, I hit the bottom, I missed a penalty and it was a moment to realise that I have to give everything for this shirt and show my personality." With Vinicius Junior suspended, Mbappe took the reins and broke the deadlock in the 10th minute as Madrid brought the ball out from the back and worked it to Rodrygo on the left flank. The Brazilian squared to Mbappe on the edge of the area, who took one touch to control, another to set himself and with his third, smashed a fierce effort past the helpless Alvaro Fernandez. Madrid's second, 10 minutes later, was even better, with Valverde firing a screamer into the top corner from over 30 yards out after a short corner routine. Ancelotti's side were in full flow and the third followed in the 34th minute when Lucas Vazquez crossed for Rodrygo, who finished with aplomb. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: UAE set to host India's matches as ICC finalises venue for hybrid model - Report Navas bows out Sevilla hit back within a minute, with Romero nodding home from Juanlu Sanchez's cross after good work by Dodi Lukebakio. Sevilla came out strongly in the second half and Romero should have added a second but fired straight at Thibaut Courtois when well placed. Instead it was Madrid who stretched their lead, with Mbappe dinking a superb pass through for Diaz to finish clinically. Sevilla brought on Navas after the hour mark and he was applauded by the Santiago Bernabeu, with this his 705th and final appearance for the club, far more than any other player. Madrid and Sevilla players together gave the retiring Spanish great -- a World Cup winner in 2010 and two-time Euros champion -- a guard of honour at the start of the game. Navas, 39, won four Europa Leagues and two Copa del Rey trophies with Sevilla, but his final appearance ended in disappointment for the Andalusians, who were outplayed in the Spanish capital. Fernandez saved from Rodrygo after Mbappe rounded the goalkeeper and passed the ball back to his Brazilian strike-partner, as Madrid looked for a fifth. Lukebakio pulled one back late on for Sevilla as Madrid were able to finish an impressive year, in which they became Spanish and European champions, with a good result. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

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