Barcelona host struggling Levante with zero room for error in the race for La Liga title | OneFootball

Barcelona return to La Liga action on Sunday under clear pressure to respond when they host Levante at the Camp Nou.

Last weekend’s 2-1 defeat to Girona proved a costly setback, allowing Real Madrid to move back to the summit and shifting the momentum in the title race.

Hansi Flick’s side had previously controlled their own destiny, but that slip has narrowed their margin for error considerably.

With the campaign entering a decisive phase, Barcelona know that any further dropped points could hand their rivals a psychological edge.

The defeat to Girona exposed familiar issues, particularly in defensive transitions and late-game control.

Flick will demand a sharper, more disciplined display as his team seeks to bounce back to form. Barcelona have generally been dominant at home this season.

They have combined fluid attacking patterns with sustained territorial pressure, overwhelming visiting sides with tempo and movement.

Their record against teams in the bottom half of the table has been particularly strong, often marked by early goals and commanding performances.

Levante arrive in Catalonia in far less stable form. They sit in 19th place and are battling to avoid relegation after a difficult campaign.

Three consecutive league defeats have dented confidence, most recently a narrow 1-0 loss to Villarreal.

Defensive frailty has defined much of their season, with the highest goals conceded tally in the division.

Away performances have offered little reassurance, as they have struggled to manage games and contain higher-quality opposition.

However, the urgency of their situation could make them dangerous.

Levante have little to lose and may look to frustrate Barcelona with a compact structure and quick counterattacks.

Barcelona will expect to dictate possession and force Levante deep into their own half.

The challenge for Flick’s side is not merely to win, but to win convincingly and restore belief after last week’s disappointment.

This fixture has traditionally favoured Barcelona, with a strong head-to-head record and frequent goals in recent meetings.

An early breakthrough would likely settle nerves inside the stadium and allow Barcelona to control the tempo.

Anything less would heighten tension and embolden a Levante side desperate for points.

With Madrid now leading the way, Barcelona’s response on Sunday will offer a clear indication of their resilience in the title chase.