Robert Lewandowski rolled back the years with a stunning hat-trick as Barcelona triumphed 4-2 over Celta Vigo in a thrilling La Liga encounter at the Estadio Abanca-Balaídos. The victory moves the Catalan giants within three points of league leaders Real Madrid, who were held to a goalless draw by Rayo Vallecano earlier in the day.
At 37, Lewandowski remains a model of sharpness and composure, and his performance in Vigo was a masterclass in timing and finishing. The Polish striker’s treble — including a penalty, a volley, and a header — showcased the range of skills that have defined his illustrious career. It was his third hat-trick in La Liga, adding to the 16 he recorded during his spells in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.
Lively Start Sets the Tone
Barcelona’s early dominance paid off inside ten minutes when referee José María Sánchez pointed to the spot after Marcos Alonso’s shot struck the outstretched arm of Celta defender Fermin Lopez. Lewandowski calmly slotted home the penalty to put the visitors in front.
But any thoughts of an easy afternoon were quickly dispelled. Just 22 seconds after Marcus Rashford missed a one-on-one chance at the other end, Celta Vigo equalised. A swift counter-attack saw Sergio Carreira sweep home from close range to make it 1-1 and spark wild celebrations among the 21,887 fans in attendance.
Rashford Redemption and End-to-End Action
Rashford, who has faced scrutiny since his summer move from Manchester United, made amends in the 37th minute. His low cross from the left found Lewandowski, who produced a precise volley to restore Barcelona’s lead. The goal highlighted the growing understanding between the two forwards — a partnership that could be pivotal to Xavi’s title ambitions.
However, Celta Vigo refused to be subdued. Six minutes later, veteran striker Borja Iglesias curled a superb shot into the top corner from the edge of the box after being teed up by Ferran Jutglà. It was a deserved equaliser for Rafael Benítez’s spirited side, who had matched Barcelona for intensity and purpose.
Yamal’s Composure and Lewandowski’s Finish
As the first half moved into stoppage time, Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal once again demonstrated his remarkable composure. Rashford’s deflected cross fell kindly to the 18-year-old, who guided the ball into the net at the back post to give Barcelona a 3-2 lead at the break.
In the second half, Barcelona controlled possession more effectively, limiting Celta’s threat on the counter. Their dominance paid off in the 73rd minute when Lewandowski completed his hat-trick, heading home Rashford’s corner at the near post. The goal underlined the striker’s predatory instincts and Rashford’s growing influence as a creator, with the Englishman providing assists for two of Lewandowski’s three goals.
Late Drama
Barcelona’s evening was not without its tense moments. Frenkie de Jong, returning from injury, was sent off deep into stoppage time after tripping Iago Aspas, earning a second yellow card. The dismissal forced Xavi’s side to play the closing stages with ten men, but they held firm to secure a valuable three points.
Barcelona Back in the Hunt
With this win, Barcelona close the gap at the top of the table to just three points, reigniting hopes of retaining their La Liga crown. The performance was not flawless — defensive lapses remain a concern — but the combination of experience and youthful flair proved decisive.
For Celta Vigo, there was pride in their display, even if they came away empty-handed. Their energy and attacking intent troubled the champions, and on another day, they might have earned a result.
As for Lewandowski, his hunger for goals shows no sign of fading. “I just love scoring and helping the team,” he said post-match. “It doesn’t matter how old you are — it’s about passion and focus.”
Barcelona will now turn their attention to next weekend’s clash with Real Betis, where another win could keep the pressure firmly on Madrid in the race for the title.
Final Score: Celta Vigo 2–4 Barcelona
