December 20, (THEWILL) – Barcelona returned to winning ways in La Liga on Wednesday night with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over struggling Almeria. The match saw the champions twice pegged back by the league’s bottom side before Sergi Roberto popped up with an 83rd-minute winner to secure the points.
The hosts looked destined to extend their winless streak after Almeria twice capitalised on errors to erase Barcelona’s leads. Ronald Araujo’s deflected shot allowed Raphinha to open the scoring just after the half-hour mark. However, Leo Baptistao levelled things up four minutes before the break after a mix-up in the Barcelona defence.
The pattern was repeated in the second half when Roberto headed home a second on the hour mark, only for Edgar Gonzalez to pounce on an Inaki Pena mistake to make it 2-2. However, Robert Lewandowski threaded a perfect through ball for Roberto to latch onto with seven minutes remaining, firing home the winner.
It was a vital three points for Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez after a run of three games without a win in all competitions. The result moves his side back within four points of second-placed Real Madrid in what is shaping up to be a tight title race heading into the rest of the season in 2024.
After being pushed all the way by La Liga’s bottom side, Xavi will be demanding improved performances from his stars after the winter break. For now, Barca will be relieved Roberto was on hand to spare the club from more dropped points.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
