Barcelona returned to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Osasuna at Camp Nou on Wednesday night, thanks to a late goal from Ferran Torres. The hosts had to work hard to break down a resilient Osasuna side, who defended well and frustrated Barcelona for most of the game.
The first half was a dull affair, with neither team creating any clear chances. Barcelona had more possession and territory, but struggled to find any openings in Osasuna’s compact defense. Osasuna, meanwhile, were happy to sit back and soak up the pressure, occasionally launching counter-attacks through Ante Budimir and Jose Arnaiz.
The second half was more lively, as Barcelona increased their tempo and intensity, and Osasuna showed more ambition. The visitors had the first big chance of the game in the 55th minute, when Budimir headed a cross from Johan Mojica just wide of the post. Barcelona responded with a series of shots from Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal, but none of them could beat Aitor Fernandez.
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The game seemed to be heading for a goalless draw, until Torres came to Barcelona’s rescue in the 86th minute. The Spanish winger, who had come on as a substitute for Yamal, received a pass from Joao Cancelo on the right flank, cut inside, and curled a left-footed shot into the bottom corner, leaving Fernandez with no chance.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Barcelona players and fans, who had endured two consecutive defeats against Real Madrid and Girona. The win lifted Barcelona to third place in the table, with 47 points from 22 games, eight points behind leaders Girona, who have a game in hand. Osasuna, on the other hand, remained in 12th place, with 26 points from 22 games.
