Barcelona Secures Hard Fought 3-2 Win Against Almeria, Easing Tensions but Leaving Questions
Barcelona brought an end to their three-match winless streak with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Almeria at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on Wednesday. The win, however, might provide only temporary relief for Xavi Hernandez and his squad, who continue to grapple with mounting pressure.
Key Moments:
- Raphinha broke the deadlock just after the half-hour mark, capitalizing on a Luis Maximiano save from a Ronald Araujo header.
- Almeria swiftly equalized as a mistake from Araujo allowed Leo Baptistao to lob the ball over Inaki Pena.
- Sergi Roberto’s first goal of the season, a header from Raphinha’s corner, regained the lead for Barcelona on the hour mark.
- Defensive mix-up between Pena and Araujo allowed Edgar Gonzalez to equalize once again.
- Sergi Roberto emerged as the unlikely hero, securing his brace after excellent play from Robert Lewandowski.
Implications:
- The win brings Barcelona within six points of league leaders Girona, closing the gap as they head into the winter break.
- Almeria remains at the bottom of the table, still without a victory this season.
Despite the victory, uncertainties loom as questions persist around the team’s consistency and the pressure on Xavi Hernandez.
