FC Barcelona maintained their title ambitions with a narrow 1-0 victory over Deportivo Alavés on February 2, 2025, at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. This win enables Barcelona to close the gap on league leaders Real Madrid, who suffered a surprising loss to Espanyol earlier the same day.
The match was largely uneventful for much of the first half, with both teams showing signs of struggle. Barcelona, under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, had not been at their best since November, but the urgency to reclaim their early season form was palpable as they took to the pitch against Alavés. The visitors, who recently slipped precariously close to the relegation zone, were equally desperate to gather points.
It wasn’t until the 62nd minute when star striker Robert Lewandowski finally broke the deadlock, scoring his 18th goal of the La Liga season. The goal came from Lamine Yamal’s impressive volleyed cross, which Lewandowski converted with ease from close range. This moment proved to be pivotal for Barcelona, who managed to hold onto their slim lead.
Despite not registering many clear-cut opportunities throughout the match, Barcelona exhibited solid teamwork and defensive organization, achieving their first clean sheet after eleven games. Alavés, on the other hand, struggled to carve out chances, consistently falling victim to Barcelona's effective offside trap.
The victory was particularly important for Barcelona, positioning them just four points behind Real Madrid and three off Atlético Madrid, who currently sit second. After the match, analysts noted, "Barcelona reduced the gap between themselves and La Liga leaders Real Madrid to just four points," highlighting the significance of this victory.
Post-match reflections from Flick confirmed the team's renewed focus on league play. "Every point counts as we aim to close the gap," he stated, emphasizing the importance of strangling any breathing room for the teams above them.
Now with the Copa del Rey tie against Valencia on the horizon, Barcelona aims to keep their momentum going. Meanwhile, Alavés, after suffering this loss, remains firmly entrenched within the relegation zone, positioned 17th and just two points above the relegation cutoff, making their upcoming matches even more of a challenge.
The defeat leaves Alavés with little room for error as the team prepares for their next league fixture against Getafe, hoping to stave off relegation. A timely victory is desperately needed, as there is little comfort left for the manageable expectation of turning their fortune around.
FC Barcelona's strong showing against Alavés not only displayed their title aspirations but also revealed the pressing struggles within the lower ranks of La Liga. Everyone's eyes on the Catalan club now as they chase the title against their historic rivals.
Overall, this match stands as both a reminder of the stakes at play this season and the unpredictable nature of La Liga, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead.