By Barcelona extended their unbeaten run in the 2024/25 La Liga season with a commanding 4-1 victory over Girona in the Catalan derby on Sunday. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal led the charge with two goals, as the visitors solidified their position at the top of the table.
The win puts Barcelona four points clear of defending champions Real Madrid, showcasing their intent to reclaim the La Liga title this season.
Yamal, 17, opened the scoring just before the 30-minute mark with a stunning solo effort. After dispossessing David Lopez, the youngster unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner, demonstrating why he’s considered one of Spain’s brightest prospects.
Seven minutes later, Yamal doubled Barcelona’s lead, curling in a precise finish after receiving a clever pass from Robert Lewandowski. The brace highlighted Yamal’s growing importance to the team and his rapid development under manager Xavi Hernandez.
Barcelona’s dominance continued in the second half. Jules Kounde provided a pinpoint lob for Dani Olmo to volley home Barcelona’s third goal shortly after the restart. Pedri then added a fourth, finishing off a well-worked move involving Marc Casado.
Girona managed a consolation goal through Cristhian Stuani with ten minutes remaining, denying Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen a clean sheet.
The only blemish on Barcelona’s performance came late in the game when Ferran Torres was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Yaser Asprilla. Despite being reduced to ten men, Barcelona comfortably saw out the match.
“This was a complete performance from the team,” Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez said post-match. “Lamine [Yamal] was exceptional, but it was a collective effort that secured this important victory.”
Girona manager Michel Sánchez acknowledged his team’s struggle against Barcelona’s quality. “They were simply too good today. We’ll learn from this and come back stronger,” he stated.
The match, played at Estadi Montilivi, showcased the growing gap between Barcelona and their Catalan rivals. While Girona has impressed in recent seasons, Barcelona’s blend of experienced stars and emerging talents proved too much on this occasion.
As the La Liga season progresses, Barcelona’s form will be crucial in their quest to dethrone Real Madrid. With players like Yamal emerging alongside established stars, the Blaugrana are sending a clear message to their rivals about their title ambitions.
The result leaves Girona mid-table, reflecting on the work needed to compete with La Liga’s elite. For Barcelona, attention now turns to their upcoming Champions League fixture, as they look to translate their domestic form onto the European stage.
