Barcelona punish Madrid slip with commanding three-goal haul against Levante | OneFootball

Barcelona reclaimed top spot in La Liga with a convincing 3-0 victory over Levante, taking full advantage of Real Madrid’s defeat to move one point clear at the summit.

Hansi Flick’s side arrived under pressure after successive losses in all competitions, but they responded emphatically at home.

The breakthrough came inside four minutes as Marc Bernal continued his impressive emergence.

Eric Garcia delivered a low cross into the area and the teenager slid in to convert from close range for his second goal in three matches.

Barcelona controlled possession from that point and looked determined to avoid any further slip.

Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both threatened as Levante struggled to cope with the hosts’ movement in wide areas.

Levante did fashion occasional openings on the counter, forcing Joan Garcia into routine saves, but they lacked conviction in the final third.

Barcelona doubled their lead just past the half-hour mark through Frenkie de Jong.

Joao Cancelo advanced down the flank and produced a measured cross into the six-yard box, where De Jong arrived unmarked to finish calmly.

It was the Dutch midfielder’s first goal in over a year and a timely contribution as Barcelona reasserted authority.

The hosts continued to press after the interval and kept Levante pinned back.

Cancelo struck the post with an inswinging delivery, while Raphinha was twice denied by goalkeeper Mathew Ryan.

Levante’s defensive frailties were evident whenever Barcelona accelerated through midfield.

Flick introduced fresh legs in the second half, seeking greater control and energy in the closing stages.

The contest was effectively settled nine minutes from time by Fermin Lopez.

The substitute collected possession outside the area and unleashed a powerful left-footed strike that flew in off the post.

The goal capped a dominant display and ensured there would be no late drama.

Ryan produced a sharp double save late on to prevent a fourth, but Levante rarely threatened a response.

The result ends Barcelona’s brief dip in form and restores belief after a difficult fortnight.

They now sit one point clear of Real Madrid with momentum restored in the title race.

The defeat deepens Levante’s relegation concerns as they remain near the foot of the table.

Barcelona’s response to recent setbacks was emphatic, and the leaders once again hold control of their destiny.