Barcelona Return To LaLiga Summit With Comprehensive Victory Over Levante

Barcelona secured a commanding 3-0 victory against Levante on Sunday, reclaiming the top spot in LaLiga.

Following Real Madrid’s 2-1 defeat to Osasuna on Saturday, Hansi Flick’s side moved one point ahead of their fierce rivals with a comfortable win at Camp Nou against the 19th-placed team.

Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong established a solid first-half lead for Barça, while Fermin Lopez sealed the victory with an impressive strike late in the match.

The team was eager to bounce back after suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals last week, followed by a 2-1 loss to Girona in LaLiga on Monday.

“It was a difficult moment for us, but today we responded well,” Flick remarked to reporters after the match. “Being at the top of the table is important, but there’s still a long way to go.”

Despite Flick’s calls for defensive improvements, Barcelona appeared vulnerable at times, although Levante’s inability to finish meant they could not capitalise on the opportunities.

Bernal opened the scoring following excellent work from Joao Cancelo, who impressed on his rare start since arriving on loan in January, alongside Eric Garcia.

This marked Bernal’s second goal since returning from a prolonged knee injury that sidelined the 18-year-old for over a year. “In my celebration, I thought of my father and my physio—he told me I would score, and he has been a tremendous help throughout this process,” Bernal shared with Movistar.

Veteran Polish forward Robert Lewandowski had the chance to double Barcelona’s lead but misfired, striking the ground and sending the ball over the bar when well positioned.

Cancelo struck the post with a cross aimed at Lewandowski before creating the second goal for De Jong with another well-placed ball from the left. De Jong’s precise finish ensured Barcelona went into the break with a two-goal advantage.

“Joao showed his strength and positive traits today, providing us with numerous great chances. It was an excellent performance from him, and it’s what I want to see,” Flick added.