In one of the most exhilarating matches of the LaLiga season, Barcelona clawed their way back from 3-1 down to defeat a valiant Celta Vigo side 4-3 at Montjuic. A stoppage-time penalty from Raphinha proved decisive, sending the home crowd into delirium and taking Barça a crucial step closer to the league title.
The game began with Barcelona on the front foot, and it took just 12 minutes for Ferran Torres to put the league leaders ahead. But Celta were quick to respond. A defensive mix-up handed Borja Iglesias an easy tap-in, and the forward went on to complete a stunning hat-trick, punishing Barça’s fragile offside trap.
Iglesias' clinical finishing gave the visitors a 3-1 advantage by the 62nd minute, silencing the home support and putting Celta on the verge of a famous win.
But Hansi Flick’s substitutions turned the tide. Dani Olmo pulled one back after a smart assist from Raphinha, and just four minutes later, the Brazilian headed home an equalizer from a Lamine Yamal cross. With the score tied at 3-3 and tensions high, both sides had chances to snatch the win.
Then came the final twist.
In the dying seconds of stoppage time, a VAR review found Lago had clipped Olmo in the box. After checking the monitor, the referee pointed to the spot. Raphinha stepped up and buried the penalty with power and precision, sealing a sensational victory.
Despite Celta’s brave performance, they left Montjuic empty-handed, while Barça extended their lead at the top of LaLiga to seven points ahead of Real Madrid’s Sunday fixture.
Next, Barcelona turn their attention to Mallorca in midweek before clashing with Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final. Celta, meanwhile, return home to face Villarreal as they continue their push for European football.
