BARCELONA moved seven points ahead at the top of LaLiga after a 2-0 win at home against CA Osasuna, ending the visitors' recent winning streak. Despite facing a very solid defense from Osasuna, Barcelona had control of the match and were rewarded for their efforts.
JOSEP LAGO / AFP
The game started well for Barcelona, with Alejandro Balde and Marcus Rashford creating early chances.
Osasuna, however, had their own opportunities, with Ante Budimir missing two chances that were blocked by Joan García. Barcelona kept up the pressure, but a header from Ferran Torres was wrongly ruled offside after a VAR check.
The second half was frustrating for Barcelona as Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera made several good saves, including one from a Rashford free-kick.
Barcelona's efforts finally paid off in the 70th minute when Raphinha scored the first goal, breaking Osasuna's resistance.
Raphinha then added a second goal late in the game with a simple finish at the back post, completing a strong performance.
The win was Barcelona's eighth consecutive home victory across three different stadiums. Osasuna, on the other hand, dropped back towards the relegation zone after their first loss in five matches.