(Football news) Barcelona defeated Athletic Club 1-0 at San Mames to stay 9 points clear. Bilbao were really unlucky to lose the game as they had a lot of chances to score. Robert Lewandowski started the game after recovering from his injury. Jules Kounde was relocated to center back as Ronald Araujo was suspended with Sergi Roberto taking the right back position. Alex Balde was once again preferred over Jordi Alba and Marcos Alonso at left back. Raul Garcia started a game for the first time since 12th February but club captain Iker Munian was benched.

The only goal of the match came in the first half’s injury time. Sergio Busquets assisted Raphinha who hit a powerful shot past the Bilbao keeper. The goal was initially ruled out for offside but VAR gave the goal. Athletic Club had a lot of chances and even hit the woodwork on a couple of occasions. In the 88th minute Inaki Williams looked to have scored a perfect goal but VAR controversially ruled it out for offside. Moments later Bilbao had a brilliant chance but Barcelona got bodies in front of goal to deny Yuri Berchiche’s shot while the rebound by Gorka Guruzeta was saved by Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.

Barcelona held on to the one goal advantage to take home 3 crucial points. Barcelona’s next fixture is the El Clasico at the Camp Nou. They have been knocked out of the Europa League which could prove to be a blessing in disguise as they have 6 days to prepare for the match. A win in that match would put Barcelona 12 points clear on the top which almost guarantees them the title. A loss on the other hand would make the gap 6 points which is still pretty solid so Barcelona basically don’t have anything to lose in that game.

Also read: Real Madrid comeback from a goal down to beat Espanyol 3-1