Barcelona Edge Past Stubborn Espanyol in Derby to Extend LaLiga Lead

Kenya, 4 January 2026 - FC Barcelona claimed a dramatic 2–0 victory over Espanyol in the Catalan derby on Saturday, scoring late to extend their lead at the top of LaLiga and keep their title aspirations firmly on track. 

The derby at the RCDE Stadium was a tense, physical affair, with both sides creating chances throughout a tight first 80 minutes. Espanyol’s resolute defending and spirited pressing kept the match level for most of the contest, but Barcelona’s experience and depth ultimately tipped the balance late.

Barcelona broke the deadlock in the 86th minute when Dani Olmo curled a superb finish into the top corner after a well-timed assist from Fermín López, who had come off the bench to influence the game.

Just four minutes later, Robert Lewandowski doubled the lead with a composed finish, again set up by López, putting the result beyond doubt and sparking celebrations among the travelling Barcelona supporters.

Espanyol had several promising opportunities in the first half, but Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia, facing his former club, produced a string of key saves that preserved the clean sheet and proved pivotal to the outcome. His performance earned praise from manager Hansi Flick after the match. 

Despite being largely outplayed in spells, Espanyol’s pressing and organisation made life difficult for the visitors, with Barcelona struggling to convert possession into clear chances until the late breakthrough.