(Football news) Gerard Pique started in his last professional game against newly promoted Almeria. Xavi decided to bench Gavi, Ansu Fati and Raphinha while Ferran Torres started on the left wing. Andreas Christensen did return to the bench after his injury but it was Marcos Alonso who partnered Pique at center back. 5 minutes after kick off Barcelona won a penalty after a handball in the box but the spot kick was missed by Robert Lewandowski. The first half was quite frustrating for Barcelona as they failed to break the deadlock. They finally scored the opening goal in the 48th minute as Ousmane Dembele scored a great goal. 14 minutes later Frenkie De Jong doubled the hosts lead.

In the 85th minute Pique was subbed off to a brilliant ovation by the Camp Nou. On his final professional appearance he not only won the game but also kept a clean sheet. The victory puts FC Barcelona top of the La Liga table, 2 points ahead of champions Real Madrid who do have a game in hand. Atletico Madrid's struggles continue as they were held at home by Espanyol. Diego Simeone started in a 4-4-2 formation with Antoine Griezmann and Alvaro Morata up front. Sergio Reguilon was once again left on the bench as he is yet to make his debut. The Rojiblancos did get a boost when Leandro Cabrera was controversially sent off in the 28th minute.

Despite playing with 10 men it was Espanyol who took the lead in the 62nd minute as Joselu assisted Sergi Darder. Atletico did find an equalizer via substitute Joao Felix in the 78th minute but they couldn't get a winner. The Rojiblancos are now 10 points behind Barcelona and by the time Real Madrid play their next game they could be 11 points behind them. The pressure is mounting on Diego Simeone who needs to change things. This is probably the first time since the Argentine's appointment that his job has been in danger for such a long time.

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