Barcelona back on top of La Liga with Levante win

Barca move ahead after Real Madrid defeat

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

First-half goals set the tone

Marc Bernal and Frenkie de Jong gave Barcelona a commanding first-half lead, before Fermin Lopez wrapped up the victory with a spectacular strike late in the game.

Response to recent setbacks

Barcelona were eager to bounce back after a 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg and a 2-1 league loss to Girona earlier this week.

"It was a really bad moment for us but in the end today we gave a good response," Flick said.
"It's important now to be on top of the table but in the end there's a long way to go."

Defensive worries remain

Despite Flick’s call for defensive improvement, Barcelona remained open at the back, though Levante’s poor finishing prevented them from taking advantage.

Bernal’s return shines

Bernal opened the scoring following strong build-up play from Joao Cancelo and Eric Garcia. This marked Bernal’s second goal since returning from a long-term knee injury that sidelined him for over a year.

"I thought of my father (in my celebration) and my physio -- he told me I would score and he has helped me a lot in this process," Bernal told Movistar.

Cancelo and De Jong extend lead

Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski missed a chance to double the lead, while Cancelo hit the post with a cross aimed at him. Later, Cancelo delivered a precise ball for De Jong, who finished to give Barcelona a two-goal lead at halftime.

"Joao today he showed his strength, his positive things, he gave us a lot of moments, great chances, for me it was a really good game from him and this is what I want to see," said Flick.

Lopez rocket secures third

Eric Garcia missed an early second-half chance, but substitute Fermin Lopez sealed the victory with a stunning long-range strike. He nearly added a fourth, only to be denied by Levante goalkeeper Mathew Ryan after Raphinha was also thwarted.

Pedri returns to action

Flick reintroduced midfielder Pedri after a month-long hamstring injury, with the Spaniard expected to play a key role in upcoming challenging fixtures.

Levante struggle

The defeat leaves Levante seven points from safety.

"In the first half we had some chances that, if we put them away, could have got them to doubt themselves," said Levante midfielder Carlos Alvarez. "If we'd have gone in front, who knows what could have happened."

Other La Liga results

Earlier, Sevilla secured a 1-0 victory at Getafe, while third-placed Villarreal host Valencia later in the day.