Barcelona 2-1 Alavés (12 Nov, 2023) Game Analysis،
Robert Lewandowski scored twice as Barcelona fought back after conceding an early goal to beat lowly Alaves 2-1 in La Liga on Sunday, saving the Spanish giants after two defeats in their last three games in all competitions.
Barca sit third with 30 points, two behind Real Madrid and four behind surprise leaders Girona.
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19-year-old Alaves striker Samu Omorodion shocked Barca by opening the scoring 18 seconds after kick-off with a close-range strike following a quick counter-attack.
The goal came after an error from Ilkay Gündogan who lost the ball in midfield and the hosts were lucky to go into the break just one behind.
In a half-empty Barcelona Olympic Stadium, with the Camp Nou under renovation, the champions struggled early on, with poor ball control and sloppy passing giving Alaves the chance to at least extend their lead four times.
However, the useless visitors missed several chances, including an absolute close-range strike in the 30th minute from Samu, who stole the ball from defender Jules Koundé but shot well over from close range.
After Kounde gifted another ball to Andoni Gorosabel, who also missed a great opportunity for Alaves, Barca manager Xavi Hernandez ordered him to change position from center back to right back and the move carried his fruits for the guests.
As they regained the lead in the second half, Lewandowski equalized with a towering header in the 52nd minute following a perfect cross from the French defender from the right.
Barca took control of the match and in the 77th minute, Alaves defender Abdelkabir Abqar fouled Raphinha inside the area and Lewandowski converted the penalty to secure the points.
“We need to be aware of our moment and be self-critical, we are not playing good football lately and need to improve mightily in the future,” Xavi told Movistar Plus.
“The international break has come on time and will do us good, so we can reflect and work hard to correct our mistakes. I am optimistic and think we have enough talent and courage to come back much better in two weeks.”
Atletico Madrid are fourth on 25 points with two games in hand on the leaders and will host Villarreal later on Sunday.
