Barca back on top with Oviedo victory

Barcelona returned to the top of La Liga with a 3-0 win over bottom side Real Oviedo on Sunday, reclaiming pole position from Real Madrid.

Despite Oviedo’s lowly standing, the visitors made life difficult for Hansi Flick’s side in a cagey first half, defending deep and frustrating Barcelona’s attacking rhythm at the partially reopened Camp Nou.

The breakthrough came early in the second half when Dani Olmo converted after sustained pressure from Raphinha and Yamal.

The Catalans doubled their lead in the 57th minute as Raphinha capitalised on a weak back-pass from David Costas, lobbing goalkeeper Aaron Escandell.

Teenage star Lamine Yamal capped the win with a stunning sideways scissor-kick from Olmo’s cross, securing a stylish finish to the victory.

Barcelona’s first-half struggles included sloppy passing and a lack of sharpness, with injured midfielder Pedri Gonzalez watching from the stands. Oviedo threatened sporadically on the counter, with Haissem Hassan testing goalkeeper Joan Garcia, while Escandell made key saves to keep the scoreline respectable.

A heavy downpour late in the game sent fans scurrying, but the weather did little to dampen the mood as Barcelona secured a vital win in the title race.