(Football news) Barcelona defeated Osasuna 2-1 at the El Sadar stadium in incredible fashion. Xavi started with Ousmane Dembele and Ferran Torres on the wing as Raphinha and Ansu Fati were once again on the bench as was Gavi. Marcos Alonso once again started at center back which is a position he looks to be getting comfortable in. Alex Balde started at left back and Hector Bellerin was left on the bench. Osasuna started the game brightly as they took the lead in the 7th minute. David Garcia scored the goal after a header from the corner. In the 31st minute things went from bad to worse as Talisman Robert Lewandowski received a 2nd yellow card and was sent off.
At half time Gerard Pique, who was on the substitutes bench in his last Barcelona game was sent off for arguing with the referee. Barcelona came into the 2nd half with more intent and got their reward as Pedri scored 3 minutes after the restart. Substitute Raphinha scored the winner in the 85th minute after a gorgeous assist from Frenkie De Jong. The Blaugrana got 3 points in their last fixture before the World Cup break. It was an incredible display of fight from Barcelona which is something they haven't shown much off in the last 2-3 seasons. The Catalan club are now 5 points ahead of Real Madrid at the top of the table who do have a game in hand. Barcelona are now guaranteed to stay at the top of the table until the World Cup is over which is a massive mental boost for the club.
Despite all the embarrassment they faced in Europe and the injury troubles in the league, Xavi's men are going strong. The El Clasico is the blip they have had domestically this season. Now various Barcelona players will travel to Qatar to play the World Cup. Xavi will be hoping that none of the players suffer any serious injuries during the mega tournament. Barcelona are in a very strong position where they can fight for the La Liga and the Europa League along with the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup.
Also read: Napoli go 8 points clear at the top while AC Milan drop crucial points
