Barcelona v Alaves | Match Highlights | LaLiga EA Sports Matchday 22

Robert Lewandowski's second-half strike secured a 1-0 win for Barcelona against Alavés on Sunday, as the third-placed hosts reduced their gap with LaLiga leaders Real Madrid to four points.

Barcelona's second league win in a row lifted them to 45 points after 22 matches, while Alavés remained 18th in the standings, two points below safety. It was a crucial victory for Xavi’s side, keeping them within touching distance of the title race as the season enters its decisive phase.

Barça started on a high note when Lamine Yamal snaked his way through a crowd of defenders to the edge of the box and found Raphinha on the left, but the Brazilian's shot was just wide of the far post. The home side's attacking intent was clear from the outset, as they looked to stretch Alavés with quick passes and overlapping runs down the flanks.

The match was held up for several minutes when Gavi and Tomás Conechny clashed heads during an aerial challenge. Both players were substituted after on-field treatment, a moment that momentarily dampened the intensity of the game. Losing Gavi was a significant blow for Barcelona, given his ability to dictate the tempo and disrupt opposition play in midfield.

Barcelona dominated possession with Alavés happy to sit back and defend. The visitors deployed a compact defensive shape, making it difficult for Barça to find clear openings. The hosts almost scored near the half-hour mark when Manu Sánchez's attempt to clear Raphinha's cross went to Lewandowski, but the Polish striker shot wide. Despite their territorial advantage, Barcelona struggled to convert possession into tangible goal-scoring opportunities.

Lewandowski headed wide from Yamal's cross in the 57th minute, but the two combined again four minutes later to put the hosts ahead. It was a moment of persistence and precision, as Pedri's lofted ball from the left reached Yamal. The young winger’s cross took a deflection off Nahuel Tenaglia and fell perfectly for Lewandowski, who volleyed home from close range. The goal relieved the growing tension inside the stadium and reinforced Lewandowski's importance to the team as their talismanic striker.

Alavés responded by pushing more players forward in search of an equalizer, which left them vulnerable at the back. Barcelona almost doubled their lead when Yamal cut inside and unleashed a powerful shot that Alavés keeper Jesús Owono did well to tip away. The teenager was a constant threat throughout the match, showcasing his skill, speed, and ability to unlock defenses with ease.

As Alavés pushed for an equalizer, Barcelona successfully slowed down the game and kept possession to frustrate the visitors. The Blaugrana midfield, led by Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, orchestrated play with patience, recycling possession and forcing Alavés to chase the ball. Xavi’s men demonstrated their game management skills, preventing their opponents from gaining momentum in the closing stages.

Toni Martínez had a chance to level in the 87th minute, but his attempt from Santiago Mouriño's cross went wide, and Alavés suffered their second league defeat since coach Eduardo Coudet took over in December. It was a frustrating evening for the visitors, who fought valiantly but lacked the clinical edge needed to secure a point.

Looking ahead, Barcelona visit Sevilla next Sunday in what promises to be another crucial encounter in their pursuit of the LaLiga title. Sevilla, known for their resilience at home, will pose a tough challenge for Xavi’s side. Meanwhile, Alavés host Getafe on the same day, aiming to bounce back and climb out of the relegation zone. With the season entering a critical juncture, every match now carries added significance for both teams.