FC Barcelona with Robert Lewandowski missed the leap to the top of the table in the Spanish league at the end of the year. The Catalans did not get more than 1-1 (1-0) in a wild city derby against Espanyol with many cards on Saturday and thus remain behind their rival Real Madrid, who is now equal on points, because of the lost direct comparison.
Marcos Alonso headed Barca ahead in the seventh minute. After a foul by the defender, Joselu (73′) equalized with a penalty and gave Marc-Andre ter Stegen no chance with a shot in the middle.
In a heated final phase, in which World Cup referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz temporarily lacked an overview, Barca’s Jordi Alba saw the yellow-red card (78th). Two minutes later, Espanyol’s Vinicius Souza also had to leave the field with the second warning. Overall, Mateu Lahoz showed more than ten yellow cards.
Lewandowski misses opportunities
Shortly before the end, Lewandowski had several chances to score the winning goal in Barcelona’s first competitive game after the World Cup in Qatar, but was unable to take advantage of any. The former Bayern striker was allowed to take part in the game at short notice.
Lewandowski was originally banned for three games in November for allegedly disapproving of a referee’s decision, but that sanction was suspended on Friday.
Madrid beat Valladolid
Real Madrid with ÖFB star David Alaba was already at the top of the table on Friday evening. The “Royal” defeated Real Valladolid away 2-0 (0-0). Karim Benzema scored both goals in the game, which became quite turbulent in the final minutes.
The Real captain, who had left runners-up France injured before the first World Cup game, scored a penalty in the 83rd minute for a late lead. After video evidence, the referee ruled the opponent’s handball.
Obviously because of violent protests, Sergio Leon also saw the red card from the hosts. In the majority, the 35-year-old Benzema followed up with his second goal (89th). Alaba played through in the first game after the World Cup break.
