FC Barcelona found the head of the liga, but not without difficulty. Opposed to a combative and well -organized Rayo Vallecano, Hansi Flick's men suffered until the end. The intense pressing and the effective defensive withdrawal of visitors have long disturbed the Blaugranas, unable to unroll their usual game. It took a penalty granted by the Var and transformed by Robert Lewandowski to seal a minimalist victory. However, the valiant Rayo has obtained several occasions and pushed Barça into his entrenchments.
A minimalist barça
As of kick -off, the Rayo displayed his intentions. A high pressing, rough duels and rapid transitions have undermined Catalan defense. Szczesny, imperial, saved his own in the face of the assaults of ISI and Frutos. If Pedri tried to bring his vision of the game to organize the offensives, Barça has struggled to cross the opposing lines. Balde and Raphinha created the danger on the sides, but without success. It took a gross fault by Pathé Ciss on Iñigo Martinez, detected by the Var, to offer the Catalans the opportunity to open the scoring. Lewandowski, freezing, transformed brilliantly, although his shot flirted with the post.
Rayo sold his skin dearly
Far from being slaughtered, the Madrilenians continued to push. De Fruutos, untenable, believed to equalize but his goal was canceled for a controversial offside from Nteka. Szczesny shone again, especially on an attempted Alvaro. On the other side, Lamine Yamal, muzzled by Chavarría, missed the opportunity to kill the match. Flick tried to stabilize his team with the entrances to Koundé and Dani Olmo, but the Rayo maintained the pressure until the last moments.
A victory that raises questions
Despite this victory, the Blaugranas showed signs of fragility, especially against pressing. Flick must quickly find solutions before the next crucial deadlines. For Rayo, this defeat is cruel but confirms their ability to compete with the best.
