Barcelona's Player Ratings vs Real Oviedo: Lewandowski's Heroics Secure Victory
Barcelona's veteran striker Robert Lewandowski rescued goalkeeper Joan Garcia as they came from behind to beat Real Oviedo 3-1. Lewandowski's decisive goal off the bench helped Barca stay in the title race against table-topping Real Madrid.
Super sub Robert Lewandowski saved goalkeeper Joan Garcia's blushes as Barcelona came from behind to beat a spirited Real Oviedo 3-1 on Thursday in La Liga. The 37-year-old is not getting any younger but he showed once again that his class is undeniable with a clinical finish against the struggling side. Garcia made a mistake he will want to forget quickly but the Poland star saved the day.After table-topping Real Madrid thumped Levante 4-1 on Tuesday, Barcelona had to respond to keep their bitter rivals honest in the title race. But things looked bleak when Alberto Reina took advantage of Garcia's sloppy pass when he was way out of his goal, and the midfielder managed to fire home from 40 yards in the 33rd minute.The reigning champions needed a response after a flat first half, and they got in the 56th minute when unlikely goalscorer Eric Garcia tapped in from a yard out after Ferran Torres' snap-shot was saved. Off the bench, Lewandowski turned things around for Barca 20 minutes from time when his terrific header crashed in off the underside of the bar. And Ronald Araujo capitalised on a tiring Oviedo side in the closing stages, as his glancing header nestled in the corner in the 89th minute to secure all three points. The result saw the Blaugrana close to within two points of Madrid after six games of the campaign.GOAL rates Barcelona's players from Carlos Tartiere Stadium...
Joan Garcia: 5/10
The goalkeeper's early blunder gifted Real Oviedo a goal but was bailed out by Lewandowski's heroics later in the game.
Eric Garcia: 7/10
The defender scored a crucial goal and put in a solid performance at the back, helping to stabilize the team after a lackluster first half.
Robert Lewandowski: 9/10
The super sub made an instant impact with a clinical header that proved to be the turning point of the match, showcasing his experience and quality.
Ronald Araujo: 8/10
The center-back sealed the victory with a well-timed header late in the game, ensuring Barcelona secured all three points in a hard-fought contest.
Overall Team Performance: 7/10
Barcelona showed character and determination to come back from a goal down, with key players stepping up when needed to secure a vital win in the title race.
