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The Digest:

Barcelona extended its La Liga lead with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over city rivals Espanyol, secured by late goals from substitutes Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski in a match defined by tension and a hostile reception for former Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia.

Key Points:
  • Goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who joined Barca from Espanyol, faced relentless whistles and hostile banners.
  • Garcia made several crucial saves, including a spectacular tip onto the bar, to keep the score level.
  • Espanyol dominated chances but were repeatedly denied by Garcia and their own poor finishing.
  • The deadlock was broken in the 86th minute by Dani Olmo's curling finish.
  • Fermin López, who assisted the first, set up Robert Lewandowski for a late clincher.
  • The win extends Barcelona's lead at the top to seven points, pending Real Madrid's result.
  • It marked Barcelona's ninth consecutive league victory, ending Espanyol's five-match winning streak.
The victory was not just about skill, but resilience, revealing how teams can navigate storms not just of competition, but of intense external pressure and expectation.

Sources: Marca, Goal