Catalan Derby Fever: Barca Edge Espanyol 2-0 Away in Thrilling Fashion

Barca fans lit up the air after stunning Espanyol.

Derby Day Delivers

Barcelona began the new year with a valuable 2-0 victory away at city rival Espanyol, in the Catalan derby, as the 18th round of La Liga unfolded yesterday.

The Blaugrana credited their win to goalkeeper Juan Garcia, who repelled several dangerous chances, while Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski sealed the goals in the 86th and 90th minutes.

After the triumph over the fierce rival, Barca supporters greeted the team with chants and fireworks outside.

League Standings and Aftermath

Barca moved to 49 points, strengthening their hold atop La Liga, seven clear of Real Madrid, who were due to face Real Betis later that day in the same round on Sunday evening.

Espanyol stayed on 33 points in fifth place, suffering a late home setback, though they had played one fewer match than Barca, still showing heart tonight.

Punchline 1: If this derby were a sniper, Barca just hit the bullseye—twice.

Punchline 2: Even the scoreboard smiled—goal-line technology finally found a sense of humor.