Barcelona moved to the summit of La Liga on Sunday with a 2-1 comeback victory over Real Sociedad, thanks to the timely return of teenage star Lamine Yamal.
The Catalans seized their chance to leapfrog Real Madrid after the champions’ 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico a day earlier. But they were made to fight for it at the Olympic Stadium after Alvaro Odriozola stunned the hosts by finishing off Ander Barrenetxea’s cross midway through the first half.
Barcelona, dominant in possession but frustrated by Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro, found a breakthrough from a set piece. Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, delivered a near-post corner that Jules Kounde converted with a powerful header.
Hansi Flick’s side looked more dangerous after the interval, and the introduction of Yamal returning from a groin injury that sidelined him for four matches, proved decisive. Voted the second-best player in the world at the Ballon d’Or gala earlier in the week, the 18-year-old wasted no time making his mark. Barely a minute after coming on, he surged into the box and delivered a pinpoint cross for Robert Lewandowski, who headed in off the post for the winner.
The closing stages were tense as both sides rattled the woodwork. Takefusa Kubo smashed the crossbar for La Real, before Lewandowski struck it at the other end when he could have sealed the result. Wojciech Szczesny, deputising for injured Joan Garcia, also made key saves to keep Barcelona ahead.
Despite the win, Kounde admitted the finish left much to be desired. “The first 70 minutes, I think, were quite good; we could have scored more than two… but I didn’t like how it ended. We suffered too much.”
For Real Sociedad, still hovering near the relegation zone in 17th place, Odriozola took positives from their performance: “Despite the defeat I’m proud of the team’s work. It’s been a tough start, and today we showed up.”
Barcelona now prepare for a crucial Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, also at the Olympic Stadium, while Real Sociedad will look to build on their improved resilience.
What you should know
Yamal’s return from injury was the turning point for Barcelona, as his instant impact reminded fans why he is considered one of football’s brightest young stars.
His assist for Lewandowski not only sealed the win but also pushed Barca to the top of La Liga, underscoring his growing importance under Flick.
