Barcelona overcame a nightmare start to secure an important 3-1 win against Deportivo Alavés at the Spotify Camp Nou on Saturday, temporarily reclaiming the top spot in La Liga.
Alavés stunned the hosts with a goal inside the opening minute as Pablo Ibáñez tapped in unmarked from a corner. Barça responded quickly through Lamine Yamal, who finished expertly following a precise cross from Raphinha and a clever pre-assist from Alejandro Balde.
Raphinha, back in the starting XI after two months out, was electric. Pressing relentlessly, making dangerous runs, and creating opportunities, he set up Dani Olmo for the decisive second goal. The Brazilian departed in the 60th minute to a standing ovation after a performance that re-energized the team.
Alavés had a few chances to equalize but were denied by a combination of heroic saves from Joan Garcia and crucial blocks, particularly from center-back Gerard Martín, who continues to impress with his composure and ball-playing ability.
Despite Barcelona’s dominance, the game remained tense until the 94th minute when Olmo found the net after a slick combination with Yamal, finally sealing the win. While not a flawless display, Barça created enough opportunities to score multiple goals against a disciplined Alavés defense.
The win provides three big points ahead of a key La Liga clash against Atlético Madrid on Tuesday.
