Barcelona maintained their grip at the top of La Liga with a commanding 3-0 victory over Levante, reclaiming pole position after Real Madrid’s recent defeat. Hansi Flick’s team responded positively to a difficult week that included losing to Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey and suffering a 2-1 setback against Girona in La Liga.
After Saturday’s shock loss at Osasuna, Barcelona began their resurgent spell by sending Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong into early goals. The match ended with Fermin Lopez completing Barca’s win with a dramatic drive late in the game.
The triumphant victory marked a comeback for Barcelona after a 4-0 drubbing against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey’s semi-final first leg and their disappointing 2-1 loss to Girona on Monday.
“We gave a good response today,” Flick affirmed, reflecting on his side’s performance. “But there’s still a long way ahead.”
Despite the improvement needed in defense highlighted by Flick, Barcelona displayed a fluid attacking presence throughout the match. Bernal scored his second goal since returning from an injury and Lewandowski had multiple chances to double Barca’s lead but fell short.
Joao Cancelo, who made his January loan debut, played well alongside Eric Garcia, creating scoring opportunities for both De Jong and Frenkie. “Today Joao showed his strength and great moments, which I want him to continue,” said the coach.
Late in the match, substitute Fermin Lopez delivered a stunning finish from distance that landed off the post, securing Barca’s third goal of the game. He could have added another but was denied by Levante goalkeeper Mathew Ryan.
Flick’s decision to bring back Pedri after his hamstring injury sidelined for over a month further bolstered Barcelona’s depth and flexibility in midfield.
Levante’s poor finishing cost them dearly, as they remained seven points from safety despite the team’s strong start of the season.
“Today we had chances that could have upset us,” said Levante midfielder Carlos Alvarez. “But there are still many games to play.”
Elsewhere on Sunday, Sevilla edged a tight match against Getafe 1-0 and Celta Vigo emerged victorious from their clash with Mallorca 2-0. Despite the narrow victory, Valencia’s loss of 2-1 to Villarreal leaves them in 16th position but now closer to fourth-placed Atletico Madrid.
Barca moved six points clear of Marcelino García Toral’s Valencia, indicating a formidable challenge for his team who are still two points behind leaders Barca.