By Martin Graham | twenty fourth Nov 2024
La Liga frontrunners Barcelona have been held to an exciting 2-2 draw by Celta Vigo in a match stuffed with twists, capped off by a dramatic ultimate ten minutes at Balaídos. The Catalan aspect, decreased to 10 males late on, noticed their lead slip away after a spirited comeback from the house staff.
Raphinha shines as Barcelona take management
Barcelona took the lead via captain Raphinha, who showcased his attacking prowess by slicing into the field and firing residence for his thirteenth objective throughout all competitions this season. The Brazilian was a relentless menace, narrowly lacking a second objective when his effort struck the woodwork.
The guests doubled their benefit when Raphinha arrange Robert Lewandowski for his fifteenth league objective of the marketing campaign. The Polish ahead’s medical end appeared to seal the victory, however the sport would take a dramatic flip within the closing minutes.
Celta Vigo struggle again after controversial first half
Celta performed with depth all through and have been denied what they felt was a transparent penalty earlier than the interval. Iago Aspas went down within the field after a problem from Gerard Martin, however the referee waved play on. Aspas, already pissed off, was booked for his protests, including to the strain on the pitch.
The hosts refused to surrender and have been rewarded after Marc Casado acquired his marching orders for a second yellow card within the 82nd minute. Two minutes later, Alfon Gonzalez halved the deficit with a composed end, igniting hopes of a comeback. Simply 4 minutes after that, Hugo Alvarez struck the equalizer, incomes Celta a well-deserved level.
Title race tightens
Barcelona’s failure to safe all three factors provides Actual Madrid a chance to shut the hole on the prime of the desk. A victory for Los Blancos towards Leganes on Sunday may cut back Barca’s result in simply 4 factors, including extra intrigue to the race for the La Liga crown.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports activities author
