Barcelona secured a remarkable 2-1 comeback win against Osasuna to go five points clear at the top of La Liga last night.
The Catalans endured a miserable first half, with the home side breaking the deadlock inside six minutes, followed by Robert Lewandowksi’s red card.
Gerard Pique, who was on the bench, soon followed the Polish striker down the tunnel after being dismissed for arguing with the officials.
Despite being a man down, Pedri levelled things up for Barca early in the second half before substitute Raphinha scored a late header from Frenkie de Jong’s long ball to complete the turnaround.
The Catalan giants will head to the World Cup break as the leaders of La Liga, five points ahead of Real Madrid, who still have a game in hand.
Although Blaugrana manager Xavi was disappointed with refereeing decisions, he was elated with his side’s incredible performance.
The Spanish manager said (h/t Football Espana): “Yes, very proud of the family that we have in there [the dressing room]. Everything went against us. Refereeing decisions, the goal at the corner.
“We defended as a group, we showed solidarity in the second half and in the end we got a golden victory. We are leading at the break, and it is a victory of pride.
“It was a spectacular victory in every sense. We told them during the break to have faith, personality and intelligence.
“We controlled the game well and defended well, we hardly conceded any clear chances until the end despite playing an hour with one man less, and we knew how to take advantage of our moments. Good in opposition territory, with help in defence, a victory of faith, courage, family – very important.”
Despite their lacklustre Champions League campaign, Barca remain a dominant force in La Liga, securing 37 points after 14 games.
They have won all their five games since the defeat against Madrid in El Clasico last month.
The pressure is on Los Blancos, who will have to record a win against Cadiz to close the gap on their arch-rivals.
