In a challenging away match at the Estadio Municipal de Butarque, Barcelona edged past relegation-threatened Leganés with a slender 1-0 victory, courtesy of an own goal by defender Jorge Sáenz in the 48th minute.
This win not only extended the Catalan giants’ unbeaten streak to 24 games but also gave them a commanding seven-point lead at the top of La Liga.
Despite their superior league standing, Barcelona struggled to impose their dominance. Leganés, fighting for survival just two points shy of safety, displayed determination and created promising opportunities in the first half.
Adria Altimira tested Wojciech Szczesny with a sharp effort, while Dani Raba came close on two occasions.
The breakthrough came early in the second half when Sáenz inadvertently deflected a teasing Raphinha cross into his own net, with Robert Lewandowski lurking dangerously in the wings.
Lewandowski, chasing his milestone 100th goal for Barcelona, saw his efforts go unrewarded but remained a constant threat.
Barcelona, fielding a slightly rotated squad after their midweek Champions League exploits, failed to find fluency in their play.
Alejandro Balde’s first-half injury added to their woes, while Leganés nearly equalized with Diego Garcia missing a golden chance and Raba’s goal being ruled out for offside.
Manager Hansi Flick will be relieved to pocket three crucial points, but the performance highlighted areas for improvement as the team turns its focus to the decisive Champions League quarter-final second leg against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.
The win marked Barcelona’s eighth consecutive away victory across all competitions, cementing their formidable form on the road.
However, with Real Madrid poised to face Alaves on Sunday, the title race remains alive, promising more twists in the weeks ahead.
