Barcelona strengthened their grip on the La Liga title race after scoring two late goals to secure a dramatic 2-0 victory over Espanyol in a fiercely contested Catalan derby. Substitute goals from Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski in the closing minutes ensured all three points for Hansi Flick’s side, moving them seven points clear at the top of the table.

For much of the match, Barcelona struggled to break down a disciplined Espanyol defence, but late inspiration from another substitute, Fermin Lopez, proved decisive as the league leaders once again showcased their knack for late goals this season.

Late Substitutes Turn the Derby in Barcelona’s Favour

With the match edging towards a goalless draw, Barcelona finally found their breakthrough in the 86th minute. Fermin Lopez, introduced to inject energy into the attack, slid a perfectly weighted pass to Dani Olmo, who produced a moment of brilliance by curling a superb strike into the top corner beyond the reach of the goalkeeper.

Just four minutes later, Barcelona sealed the result. Lopez was again the architect, this time delivering an inviting ball from the right flank that allowed Robert Lewandowski to apply a delicate close-range finish and make it 2-0 in stoppage time.

The goals continued a remarkable trend for Barcelona, who have now scored 12 goals in the final 15 minutes of second halves—more than any other team in La Liga this season.

Espanyol Start Brightly but Miss Their Chances

Espanyol began the derby with confidence and intent, creating early danger in front of their home crowd. Former Blackburn Rovers forward Tyrhys Dolan tested Barcelona’s defence within the opening four minutes, but his effort was blocked.

Despite periods of pressure from the visitors, Espanyol remained organised and competitive, frustrating Barcelona for long spells and threatening on the counterattack.

Former Espanyol Keeper Shines for Barcelona

A key figure in keeping Barcelona level for much of the game was Joan Garcia, who returned to face his former club. The 24-year-old goalkeeper, who left Espanyol last summer after nine years, delivered an outstanding performance with a series of crucial saves.

Garcia’s replacement, Marko Dmitrovic, was also called into action, making a vital stop in the 72nd minute to deny Eric Garcia from close range. At that stage, a draw appeared the most likely outcome—until Barcelona’s late surge changed the narrative.

Title Race Pressure on Real Madrid

Barcelona’s victory extends their lead at the summit of La Liga to seven points, increasing the pressure on second-placed Real Madrid. Carlo Ancelotti’s side have the opportunity to cut the gap back to four points if they defeat Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday (15:15 GMT).

Espanyol’s Long Wait Continues

For Espanyol, the defeat means they remain fifth in the league standings, and their long wait for a league victory over their city rivals continues. Their last La Liga win against Barcelona dates back to 2009, a statistic that underlines the challenge they continue to face in the derby.

Despite the result, Espanyol’s disciplined display suggested they remain well placed in the battle for European qualification.