Barcelona’s unbeaten run in LaLiga continued in dramatic fashion as they came from behind to defeat Real Oviedo 3–1 at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere. The reigning champions were stunned in the first half by a long-range strike from Alberto Reina, but second-half goals from Eric García, Robert Lewandowski, and Ronald Araújo sealed a vital win that keeps Barça two points behind leaders Real Madrid
⚡ First-Half Frustration
Hansi Flick’s side entered the match with momentum, having won four of their first five league games. But Oviedo, newly promoted and eager to make a statement, started brightly. Barcelona dominated possession—holding 79% of the ball—but couldn’t find a breakthrough.
Marcus Rashford and Raphinha both came close, with Rashford denied twice by Oviedo keeper Aarón Escandell and Raphinha striking the post. Then came the moment of madness: Barça goalkeeper Joan García misjudged a clearance and gifted the ball to Alberto Reina, who lobbed it into the empty net from 35 yards
Oviedo led 1–0 at halftime, and Barcelona looked rattled.
🔁 Flick’s Tactical Shift
Flick responded by introducing Frenkie de Jong and Robert Lewandowski early in the second half. The impact was immediate. In the 56th minute, Ferran Torres’ deflected shot fell to Eric García, who bundled it home to level the score.
Barcelona continued to press, and in the 70th minute, Lewandowski rose to meet a de Jong cross, heading it in off the underside of the bar to give Barça the lead. It was the Polish striker’s first goal against Oviedo and his 21st LaLiga opponent conquered.
Araújo sealed the win in the 88th minute, nodding in Rashford’s corner to make it 3–1.
🧠 Key Takeaways
Barcelona’s resilience: Despite trailing and missing key players like Lamine Yamal, Barça showed grit and tactical flexibility.
Lewandowski’s impact: Dropped to the bench, he responded with a decisive goal and leadership.
Escandell’s heroics: Oviedo’s keeper made 10 saves and kept the scoreline respectable.
📊 Match Stats
| Stat | Real Oviedo | Barcelona |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 21% | 79% |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 10 |
| Total Attempts | 7 | 22 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 0.74 | 2.14 |
| Final Score | 1 | 3 |
🗣️ Flick’s Reaction
“We made mistakes, but the team responded with character,” Flick said post-match. “Lewandowski and de Jong changed the game. We’re still growing, and this win shows our depth.”
📅 What’s Next?
Barcelona host Real Sociedad on Sunday before a Champions League clash against PSG next Wednesday. With Real Madrid facing Atlético in the Madrid derby, Barça could close the gap at the top if results go their way.
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