Barcelona dominates, Lewandowski scores, and match remains intense against Alavés in LaLiga

Big goal, Lewy! 👏#BarçaAlavés | #LaLigaHighlights pic.twitter.com/o5vgcUo9eJ

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 2, 2025

First half marked by tension and balance

Barcelona started the match with high pressing, utilizing the right wing with Yamal’s dribbling skills. Early in the game, the young star produced a stunning play, dribbling past several defenders before setting up Raphinha, who fired wide. However, Alavés responded with quick transitions and aerial plays, putting some pressure on the home side’s defense.

The game was temporarily halted in the 10th minute due to a violent head collision between Gavi and Conechny. The impact was so severe that both players had to leave the pitch. Gavi initially tried to continue but was replaced by Fermín López. Conechny, in a more concerning condition, was stretchered off and taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. The incident caused visible concern among the players and fans.

For the remainder of the first half, Barcelona struggled to create clear-cut chances. Pedri had a quiet game, affecting the team’s offensive flow. Lewandowski found himself isolated upfront, receiving few quality passes. Alavés’ defensive setup proved effective, keeping the Catalan giants from scoring before halftime.

Second half with increased intensity and Barcelona’s dominance

Xavi made tactical changes at halftime to increase his team’s attacking presence. Frenkie de Jong replaced Casadó to enhance ball distribution and midfield control.

Alavés dropped deeper into their own half, deploying all players behind the ball to contain Barcelona’s offensive movements. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t prevent Lewandowski’s goal. The move started with a precise through-ball from Pedri, which Yamal converted into a pinpoint assist for the Polish striker to finish clinically.

After taking the lead, Barcelona continued pushing forward, looking to extend their advantage. However, Alavés’ defense, alongside goalkeeper Owono, managed to prevent further goals.

Lewandowski and Yamal: The match’s standout players

• Lewandowski has now scored 30 goals in 32 matches this season, proving his importance in Barcelona’s attack.
• Yamal has been outstanding, providing dribbles and an assist for the only goal so far.
• The young Spaniard continues to establish himself as one of the key offensive threats for Barcelona.

Key moments up to the 36th minute of the second half

• Lewandowski’s goal: A composed finish following an assist from Yamal.
• Head collision incident: Gavi and Conechny were substituted after a serious head clash.
• Barcelona’s dominance: Controlling possession and continuously attacking Alavés’ defense.
• Alavés’ defensive resilience: The visitors have remained compact to avoid conceding a second goal.

Match statistics (up to the 36th minute of the second half)

• Possession: Barcelona 69% – 31% Alavés
• Shots: Barcelona 14 – 3 Alavés
• Corners: Barcelona 6 – 1 Alavés
• Fouls committed: Barcelona 4 – 12 Alavés
• Offsides: Alavés has been caught offside 11 times so far.

Tensions and bookings in the match

The match has had several heated moments. In the 35th minute of the second half, Frenkie de Jong was fouled harshly by Blanco, leading to a brief altercation between players from both teams. The referee stepped in but did not issue any bookings.

Another controversial moment came in the 21st minute of the second half, when Raphinha, while being substituted for Ferrán Torres, received a yellow card for protesting against the referee’s decisions.

Timeline of key events

• 10′ 1st half: Serious head collision between Gavi and Conechny; both players substituted.
• 15′ 2nd half: Lewandowski scores after a Yamal assist.
• 21′ 2nd half: Raphinha receives a yellow card before leaving the pitch.
• 35′ 2nd half: Heated argument between De Jong and Blanco following a foul.

Can Barcelona extend their lead?

At 36 minutes into the second half, Barcelona remains in control of the game, pushing for a second goal to seal the victory. However, Alavés continues to resist and may still attempt a late counterattack to equalize.

The current score stands at 1-0 in favor of Barcelona, with the home fans eagerly awaiting the final minutes of action.