Barcelona, Spain – November 30, 2025: Barcelona bounced back from an early shock to secure a 3-1 La Liga victory over Deportivo Alaves at the Nou Camp on Saturday, thanks to first-half goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo, followed by a late finish from Olmo to seal the win. The triumph propels the reigning champions back to the top of the La Liga standings, with 34 points, two ahead of second-placed Real Madrid, who have a game in hand.
Early Setback and Quick Response
Barcelona’s second match at the partially renovated Nou Camp came with some pre-match turbulence. Technical issues with the club’s mobile ticketing app created long queues at support desks, leaving large sections of the stadium empty at kickoff.
Alaves capitalized immediately, stunning the hosts in the first minute. Pablo Ibanez pounced on a loose ball from a corner, slotting neatly past Marc Bernal to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.
However, Barcelona responded swiftly. Just seven minutes later, Alejandro Balde raced down the left wing, setting up Raphinha, who delivered a low cross. The 18-year-old Lamine Yamal met the ball with a precise one-touch finish into the top corner, leveling the score at 1-1.
Dani Olmo Gives Barca the Lead
Barcelona continued to dominate, and in the 26th minute, Raphinha assisted again, this time for Dani Olmo, who curled the ball expertly into the net from inside the box to put the Blaugrana ahead 2-1.
Yamal narrowly missed doubling his tally in the 44th minute, hitting the post from a perfect Robert Lewandowski pass, while Alaves came close to equalizing just before halftime, with Lucas Boye firing narrowly wide.
Second Half Control and Olmo’s Late Finish
Barcelona controlled much of the second half. Lewandowski’s effort in the 56th minute was denied by a spectacular reflex save from Alaves goalkeeper Antonio Sivera. Alaves had another chance in the 77th minute, but Boye again missed from close range.
The match was finally put beyond doubt in added time, as Dani Olmo finished off a slick one-two with Yamal, slotting home to seal the 3-1 victory.
Return of Pedri
The match also saw the return of midfielder Pedri, who came on in the second half after missing over a month due to a muscle injury. His presence added stability to Barcelona’s midfield and will be crucial ahead of Tuesday’s key clash against Atletico Madrid.
Atletico Madrid currently sit fourth in the La Liga standings with 28 points and have not lost since their season opener, but Barcelona’s win puts pressure on Diego Simeone’s side, especially as they host Oviedo with a game in hand.
La Liga Implications
This comeback win highlights Barcelona’s resilience and depth, with Yamal and Olmo’s contributions cementing their importance in the squad. The victory also reaffirms Barcelona’s status as title contenders, putting them ahead in the race for La Liga glory in the 2025 season.
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