Barcelona extended their lead at the top of La Liga to nine points on Sunday with a 3-1 victory over local rivals Espanyol, as Dani Olmo marked his first start since injury with a brace.
Olmo, who had been sidelined since mid-September, opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a clinical finish after a delightful pass from Lamine Yamal. Brazilian winger Raphinha doubled the lead just six minutes later, lofting the ball over Espanyol goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte. Olmo added his second in the 31st minute with a powerful low drive, giving Barcelona a commanding 3-0 advantage.
Espanyol fought back in the second half, with Javi Puado pulling one back in the 57th minute. However, Barcelona held on for the victory, despite Espanyol having three goals ruled out for offside.
The win sees Barcelona move nine points clear of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand. It also marks the 10th victory in 11 La Liga matches for Hansi Flick’s side, who have been in sensational form since his arrival.
“I’m back, enjoying it, playing, winning, and I want more,” said Olmo after the match.
Barcelona’s summer signing was electric in the first half, showcasing his goalscoring prowess.
“He knows how to score goals, this was very important for us today,” said Flick. “This is also why we won this match, and these important three points.”
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid moved into third place with a comfortable 2-0 win over Las Palmas. Diego Simeone’s son, Giuliano, netted his first goal for the club, opening the scoring in the 37th minute. Nahuel Molina provided the assist with a long ball that found Simeone darting in behind the defense.
The striker, deployed on the right wing by his father, burst into the box and swept the ball into the far corner.
“I’m very happy for my first goal for Atletico but we can’t ignore everything that’s happening in Valencia, all the victims there. I send my support and strength to them,” said Giuliano Simeone.
Atletico sealed the victory in the 65th minute when Antoine Griezmann converted a penalty.
The win sees Atletico move above Real Betis into third place, with 27 points from 13 matches.
