Barcelona strengthened their grip at the top of La Liga with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday.
The decisive moment came in the 24th minute when Barcelona captain Ronald Araújo rose highest to head home a corner delivered by João Cancelo, sealing all three points for the hosts.
Despite the early breakthrough, Barcelona were nearly caught off guard in the opening minute, with Rayo’s Carlos Martín missing a golden chance from close range after goalkeeper Joan García rushed out to deny him.
That proved to be Rayo’s only shot on target in a subdued first half.
Barcelona pushed for a second goal, with Raphinha coming close as his deflected strike forced a strong save from Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla, who tipped the ball onto the crossbar.
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After the break, Joan García was again called into action, producing a crucial save to deny Unai López’s header and preserve Barcelona’s slender lead.
Rayo continued to threaten late on, with Pacha Espino firing over the bar in the closing stages.
The win sees Barcelona move seven points clear at the summit of La Liga, tightening their hold on the title race.
Attention now turns to Real Madrid, who face city rivals Atlético Madrid later on Sunday as they aim to cut the gap.
Barcelona, under manager Hansi Flick, will next face Atlético after the international break, with the two sides also set to meet in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, setting up a crucial run of fixtures that could define their season.
