La Liga Title Race Heats Up as Barça Extend Unbeaten Streak
Barcelona delivered a masterclass performance against Las Palmas on Saturday night, securing a critical 3-0 victory at Estadio de Gran Canaria to maintain their position atop La Liga alongside rivals Real Madrid. The win extends Hansi Flick’s unbeaten streak in 2025 to 12 matches across all competitions, with Robert Lewandowski netting his league-leading 20th goal of the season.
Match Breakdown
Despite Las Palmas’ shocking 2-1 upset in November’s reverse fixture, Barcelona dominated possession (68%) and outshot their opponents 23-6. Frenkie de Jong orchestrated midfield control while teenage sensation Lamine Yamal terrorized defenders on the right flank. Lewandowski opened scoring in the 34th minute before Raphinha and substitute Fermín López sealed the result.
Relegation Worries Deepen for Hosts
Las Palmas’ winless streak now stretches to eight matches, leaving them just one point above relegation rivals Valencia. Manager Diego Martinez faces mounting pressure as his squad battles injuries to key players including Marc Cardona and Fabio Silva. Defensive vulnerabilities persist – the Canary Islands club has conceded 41 goals this season (19th in La Liga).
Tactical Analysis
Barcelona’s 4-3-3 formation exploited Las Palmas’ high defensive line through rapid transitions. Yamal’s width creation allowed overlapping runs from Jules Koundé, while Pedri’s late midfield arrivals confused markers. Las Palmas’ experimental 4-2-3-1 setup failed to contain Barça’s fluid attack despite Enzo Loiodice’s combative midfield display.
What’s Next?
The Catalans face Sevilla in a crucial Champions League clash on Wednesday before hosting Athletic Bilbao in La Liga. Las Palmas travel to relegation rivals Valencia on March 1st in a must-win survival battle. With both Madrid clubs within striking distance, Barcelona’s title credentials face ultimate tests in coming weeks.
