Lewandowski Hat-Trick Powers Barcelona Past Celta Vigo

Barcelona player ratings vs Celta Vigo serve as a testament to the Blaugrana’s attacking prowess, as Robert Lewandowski’s stunning hat-trick led his side to a 4-2 victory and narrowed the La Liga gap to just three points behind Real Madrid. Despite Celta Vigo’s persistent counter-attacks and moments of defensive vulnerability for Barcelona, the attacking trio of Marcus Rashford, Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal once again delivered when it mattered most.

Barcelona Player Ratings vs Celta Vigo: Lewandowski Shines

The match at Balaidos kicked off at a frenetic pace, with both teams exchanging dangerous attacks. Early on, Fermin Lopez’s speculative shot resulted in a penalty after striking Marcos Alonso’s arm. Lewandowski confidently dispatched the spot kick to open the scoring. However, Celta Vigo replied instantly, as Sergio Carreira broke through the Barcelona defense to level the match.

Barca’s persistence paid off in the 37th minute. Marcus Rashford, thriving in his left-wing role, delivered a pinpoint cross for Lewandowski to bag his second of the night. The lead was short-lived as Celta’s Ferran Jutgla set up Borja Iglesias, whose accurate finish brought the teams level once again.

As first-half stoppage time approached, Rashford’s clever cutback, deflected by Ilaix Moriba, found its way to Lamine Yamal. The teenage sensation finished expertly at the near post, restoring Barcelona’s advantage before halftime.

Midfield Control and Lewandowski’s Hat-Trick Complete the Job

Frenkie de Jong took command in the second half, dictating play from the center and helping Barcelona control the tempo. Rashford continued his playmaking brilliance, assisting Lewandowski’s third goal with a precise corner kick, sealing the Polish striker’s hat-trick and cementing his status as man of the match.

De Jong’s red card in stoppage time was a blemish on an otherwise controlled performance, but Barcelona managed to thwart any late Celta resurgence and secure a crucial win.

Individual Barcelona Player Ratings vs Celta Vigo

• Wojciech Szczesny (6/10): Little chance with either goal, composed in the second half.
• Eric Garcia (6/10): Reliable in an unfamiliar right-back role, contributed going forward.
• Ronald Araujo (6/10): Grew into the game after a tough start against Borja Iglesias.
• Pau Cubarsi (5/10): Struggled with Celta’s pace, particularly on the first goal.
• Alejandro Balde (6/10): Supported attacks but was caught out defensively for both Celta goals.
• Frenkie de Jong (8/10): Calm and influential in midfield, minus his late dismissal.
• Dani Olmo (5/10): Unable to make a significant impact replacing Casado.
• Fermin Lopez (6/10): Won the early penalty and distributed the ball effectively.
• Lamine Yamal (8/10): Well-marked but still managed a pivotal goal.
• Robert Lewandowski (10/10): Clinical finishing, dominant presence, and a textbook hat-trick.
• Marcus Rashford (9/10): Two assists, constant threat, and instrumental to Barca’s attacking fluidity.

Substitutes and Manager

• Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin, Ferran Torres, Marc Bernal (N/A): Introduced late with the result secure.
• Hansi Flick (6/10): High defensive line proved risky, but his faith in the attack paid off handsomely.

La Liga Implications: Barcelona Close in on Leaders

With this vital win, Barcelona reduce Real Madrid’s lead at the top of La Liga to just three points, signaling a reinvigorated title challenge. The Blaugrana’s attacking options, especially the Rashford-Lewandowski-Yamal axis, look increasingly cohesive and dangerous.

Opinion: Lewandowski’s Brilliance Elevates Barcelona

In another display of class, Robert Lewandowski reminded everyone why he remains one of Europe’s elite forwards. Not only did his goals drive Barcelona to victory, but his movement and clinical edge also inspired his teammates. Marcus Rashford’s seamless adaptation continues to impress, as does Lamine Yamal’s poise under pressure. However, defensive frailties persist, and if Barcelona hopes to overtake Real Madrid, tightening up at the back is essential. For now, the Blaugrana faithful can celebrate a thrilling win and look ahead optimistically. Visit for more news on Barcelona and La Liga action.