Barcelona climb to third after victory over 10-man Osasuna

Barcelona claimed a pivotal 1-0 triumph against 10-man Osasuna at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys that elevated Xavi Hernandez’s side to third position in La Liga. Osasuna were unable to score for the fourth consecutive away clash between the two sides.

Barcelona were eager to rebound from their shocking 5-3 defeat to Villarreal last week. However, their start was less than ideal, with Ferran Torres forced off with injury in the first 10 minutes. Despite dominating possession in the first half, Barcelona failed to seriously test Osasuna goalkeeper Aitor Fernandez.

The breakthrough finally came shortly after the interval, when 18-year-old substitute Vitor Roque headed in Joao Cancelo’s pinpoint cross. Osasuna’s problems were amplified when Unai Garcia received his second booking for dragging down Roque. Lamine Yamal nearly doubled Barcelona’s lead, before Raul Garcia and Jon Moncayola went close to equalising as Osasuna pushed for a leveller.

Ultimately Osasuna were unable to find the back of the net, seeing their three-match unbeaten run end. The result strengthens Barcelona’s position in the top four as they aim to defend their La Liga crown this campaign. Osasuna remained 12th in the standings after the away loss.