• Match review

Barcelona 2-1 Real Madrid: Catalans take key step toward La Liga title

Real Madrid vs Barcelona (El Clasico)
© Ace Football
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Barcelona move 12 points clear of their arch-rivals at the top of the La Liga table.

Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 2-1 in their La Liga game on Sunday. A late match-winner from Franck Kessie secured the crucial victory for Xavi’s men.

A dramatic comeback!

Real Madrid stunned their opponents with an early goal as they went ahead in the ninth minute. Vinicius Junior’s cross deflected off Ronald Araujo and went past Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the near post.

The goal forced Barcelona to push forward for the equalizer. The hosts initially lacked enough attacking edge to create serious chances. But their attacks improved as the game went on.

The Catalans found the equalizer at the perfect time, making it 1-1 just before the half-time whistle. Sergi Roberto latched onto a deflected shot from Raphinha before smashing it into the right corner of the net.

The goal changed the course of the game as Barca remained on the offensive when the second half started. The Catalans weren’t clinical enough to complete their comeback as Real Madrid regained their momentum.

The Blancos thought they had restored their lead when Marco Asensio scored in the 81st second, but the VAR ruled out the goal for offside.

The Catalans successfully increased the pace of the game in the final ten minutes, finally finding the match-winner in the 92nd minute. Following a brilliant assist from Alejandro Balde, Kessie slotted the ball into the near corner of the net with a precise low shot to win the game for the hosts.

The victory puts Barca 12 points above Real Madrid on the league table as they take a huge step toward the La Liga title.

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