Lewandowski and Cancelo Seal Barcelona's Epic 3-2 Win Over Celta
In a breathtaking Spanish league encounter on Saturday, Robert Lewandowski delivered two late goals, and João Cancelo struck an 89th-minute winner to inspire Barcelona to a spectacular 3-2 comeback victory over Celta Vigo at home.
With his team trailing 2-0, Rafa Benítez sought his first significant win since his return to coaching in Spain. Lewandowski's heroics began in the 81st minute when he found the net. Cancelo then orchestrated Lewandowski's equalizer in the 85th minute before sealing the comeback.
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández, fresh off a contract extension through 2025, praised the team's determination, saying, "It was a great fightback. It is true we were disorganized at times and didn’t make the ball flow like in other games, but the team won in faith and courage."
The result leaves Barcelona level on points with the surprising Girona, who routed Mallorca 5-3. Real Madrid is just one point behind both clubs ahead of their clash with Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
Celta Vigo initially led through Jorgen Strand Larsen in the 19th minute and added a second goal from substitute Anastasios Douvikas in the 76th minute. However, Barcelona's late resurgence stunned Celta.
João Félix, another loan arrival, set up Lewandowski's first goal, adding to his three goals since joining the club. For Benítez and Celta, the loss was a bitter disappointment, as they have only secured one win in six games under his leadership.
Barcelona did suffer a setback with midfielder Frenkie de Jong's injury late in the first half, but Gavi seamlessly replaced him.
Girona continued their impressive form, winning their fifth straight game after drawing their opener. This underdog team, partially owned by Manchester City's Abu Dhabi ownership, now tops the league standings after defeating Granada 4-2 and scoring nine goals in their last two games.
Mallorca initially took the lead with Vedat Muriqi converting a fourth-minute penalty, but Girona roared back with goals from David López, Artem Dovbyk, Iván Martín, Yangel Herrera, and Sávio. Ábdon Prats scored a late brace for Mallorca.
In other matches, Almeria's Sergio Arribas scored twice in a 2-2 draw with Valencia, while Sevilla played to a goalless draw against Osasuna.
SportsLigue