By Barcelona delivered a commanding performance to defeat Villarreal 5-1 in La Liga on Sunday, showcasing their title credentials and bouncing back from their midweek Champions League setback.
Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha each netted twice, while Pablo Torre contributed a goal to secure the away victory. Ayoze Perez scored Villarreal’s consolation.
The win keeps Xavi Hernandez’s side atop La Liga with 18 points, four clear of Real Madrid and five ahead of Atletico Madrid.
Villarreal threatened early when Perez had a goal disallowed for offside. Barcelona responded swiftly, with Lamine Yamal hitting the post before Lewandowski opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, converting Torre’s clever pass.
The Polish striker doubled Barcelona’s lead in the 32nd minute. Perez pulled one back for Villarreal three minutes later, briefly reigniting the home side’s hopes.
Barcelona faced a setback just before halftime when goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was stretchered off with an injury. Inaki Pena replaced him, making his first league appearance since February.
The visitors extended their lead after the break when Torre’s shot deflected in off Logan Costa in the 55th minute. Lewandowski then missed a penalty, hitting the post after Yamal was fouled in the box.
However, Raphinha soon put the game beyond doubt with two goals in quick succession. His first came in the 73rd minute with a powerful strike from the center of the penalty area. Five minutes later, he volleyed home from Yamal’s assist to complete the rout.
“We showed great character today, especially after the disappointment in Monaco,” Xavi said post-match. “This performance proves our strength and depth.”
Villarreal manager Marcelino Garcia Toral lamented his team’s defensive lapses: “We started well, but Barcelona’s quality was overwhelming. We need to improve quickly.”
The result leaves Villarreal in 12th place, while Barcelona continues their unbeaten run in La Liga, sending a strong message to their title rivals.
