Lewandowski scores as Barcelona secure hard-fought win to claim top spot.

Lewandowski scores as Barcelona secure hard-fought win to claim top spot.

BARCELONA, Feb 18 — Robert Lewandowski’s penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Barcelona against Rayo Vallecano, pushing them to the top of La Liga.

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World

BARCELONA, Feb 18 — Robert Lewandowski’s penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Barcelona against Rayo Vallecano, pushing them to the top of La Liga.

Barcelona, once seven points behind, capitalized on slip-ups from both Madrid clubs, who drew their matches on Saturday.

Lewandowski netted his 20th goal of the season in the 28th minute, with his penalty bouncing in off the post. Despite numerous saves from Rayo goalkeeper Pep Chavarria, Barcelona held firm. Rayo's Jorge de Frutos saw a late goal disallowed and missed a crucial header in stoppage time.

“It wasn’t easy, but we’re happy with the result,” said Barcelona coach Hansi Flick.

The win extends Barcelona’s unbeaten streak in 2025 to 12 matches while ending Rayo’s 10-game unbeaten run. — AFP

Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Spanish league match against Rayo Vallecano at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Barcelona on February 17, 2025. — AFP pic

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