VALLADOLID, Spain — Barcelona show strength for La Liga chase with a 2-1 comeback win against relegated Real Valladolid on Saturday, May 3, 2025. The host team took an early lead but Barça rallied in the second half to secure crucial points.
The match started with Valladolid surprising everyone by scoring just six minutes in. Iván Sánchez’s shot deflected off Ronald Araújo and caught Marc-André ter Stegen off-guard. After a long injury layoff, it was clear ter Stegen was looking to regain form, but this goal tested him.
Despite falling behind, Barcelona did not lose focus. Hansi Flick, Barça’s manager, made several changes in the starting lineup, including giving Dani Rodríguez his first team debut. Unfortunately, Rodríguez suffered an injury before halftime and was substituted for Lamine Yamal.
Flick’s adjustments paid off after the break when substitute Raphinha equalized in the 54th minute. He capitalized on a rebound from a deflected Yamal cross to slot the ball into the net. Just minutes later, Fermín López struck a low shot into the back of the net, completing the turnaround for Barça.
“I was really looking forward to playing this game and it’s always better when you win,” said Ter Stegen. “We keep our good run of results going, which was important. Now we look forward to the next few weeks, we have some big games coming up.” He emphasized the importance of such achievements in high-stakes matches.
Barcelona continued to push for a third goal but came close to conceding again as Valladolid counter-attacked. Ter Stegen made key saves to keep Barcelona in the lead as the game intensified. Flick praised his young squad, saying, “When you make nine changes, it’s not easy for these guys. They are young. I believe in them.”
However, the match took a toll on Barça as midfielder Gavi left the pitch holding his hamstring. Flick reported optimism about Gavi’s condition, expressing hope that it wasn’t a severe injury. “I think Gavi is OK,” he told reporters after the match.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Barcelona, keeping them seven points ahead of the second-placed team. If Real Madrid loses their next game, Barça could secure the La Liga title with a win in El Clásico next week. Barcelona will next face Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinal second leg on May 6, 2025, after a tense first leg that ended in a 3-3 draw.
Attendance for the match was 23,967, with fans witnessing an exciting contest that showcased Barcelona’s determination to reclaim dominance in Spain’s La Liga.
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