VIGO, NOV 24 – La Liga leaders Barcelona suffered a dramatic fall when tied 2-2 against Celta Vigo yesterday.
Goals from Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski put the Catalans in a comfortable position, but Marc Casado’s red card in the 82nd minute helped Celta to a draw.
Alfonso Gonzalez took advantage of Jules Kounde’s mistake to score the first goal, before Hugo Alvarez equalized two minutes later.
Barcelona have won 11 league games this season, but this is the third time they have failed to pick up three points without teenage winger Lamine Yamal.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said he would challenge his side to win without the injured 17-year-old star winger, and it looked like they were close until a dramatic collapse late in the game.
Barcelona are now five points clear of Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga, while defending champions Real Madrid, who are in third place, are in action today against Leganes.
Flick put Raphinha in Yamal’s position on the right, using Dani Olmo on the left and Pedri in attacking midfield.
The Barcelona coach gave Gavi the chance to start a game for the first time in more than a year, after the midfielder returned to fitness following a serious knee injury.
Raphinha opened the scoring in the 15th minute, neatly finishing a high ball from Jules Kounde, continuing his excellent form.
Barcelona left-back Gerard Martin was booked early and played dangerously throughout the first half. He pushed Iago Aspas as the player advanced, but managed to avoid more serious action and stay within the bounds of the game. – AFP