Not Their Best, But Still the Best: Barca Stumble to Another Win
Barcelona’s pursuit of the La Liga title continued with a nervy 1-0 victory at Leganes
Barcelona may have taken all three points, but it was far from a masterclass. Hansi Flick’s side eked out a hard-fought 1-0 win against relegation battlers Leganes on Saturday night — with a Jorge Saenz own goal making the difference in a game filled with missed chances and nervous moments.
The Catalans entered the fixture fresh off a 4-0 demolition of Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League but were uncharacteristically disjointed at the Estadio Municipal de Butarque. Despite a nearly full-strength lineup, their rhythm faltered, and it showed.
A Cross, A Lurk, A Mistake – Barca’s Only Spark
Barcelona’s lone goal came in the 33rd minute when Raphinha’s teasing cross caused panic in the Leganes box. With Robert Lewandowski lurking dangerously, center-back Jorge Saenz sliced the ball into his own net — a tragic but decisive moment for the hosts.
The Polish striker came close to his 100th Barcelona goal later in the game but saw his glancing header miss the target. It was a night where Barcelona’s forwards didn’t fire, and their midfield struggled to assert control.
Leganes Deserved More
It could’ve easily gone the other way. Adria Altimira, Dani Raba, and Diego Garcia all had good chances to level — or even win — for Leganes. Raba’s goal in the second half was rightly ruled out for offside, but his overall impact highlighted Barcelona’s vulnerability.
Leganes, who shocked Barcelona in the reverse fixture back in December, played with intensity and courage, only to be undone by misfortune and missed opportunities.
Flick’s Risky Rotation & Injury Worries
Hansi Flick made just two changes to the side that dominated Dortmund midweek, and fatigue showed. The tempo was sluggish, passing sloppy, and the early injury to Alejandro Balde compounded the manager’s problems.
With a crucial Champions League second leg looming in Germany, Flick must now contend with balancing player fitness and maintaining Barcelona’s lead at the top of La Liga.
What It Means for the Title Race
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Barcelona move seven points clear of second-placed Real Madrid, pending their trip to Alaves on Sunday.
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This win marks eight straight away victories for Barca in all competitions.
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The unbeaten streak now stands at 24 La Liga matches — but performances like this one suggest they’re walking a tightrope.
“Not our finest hour, but we’re still standing.”
– Hansi Flick after Barcelona’s narrow win over Leganes
