Celta Vigo vs Barcelona: Lewandowski's hattrick helps Blaugrana capitalise on Real Madrid slip up

Barcelona defy modern history as they picked up their third win in 11 matches away at Celta Vigo, thanks to Robert Lewandowski's hat-trick.

Barcelona tend to struggle at Abanca Balaidos; given Celta's rich form, Hansi Flick's side were expected to struggle. In fairness to the pre-match analysis, they did struggle in the first-half, shading it 3-2, but were in control in the second-half to seal a 4-2 result.

The game started brightly, with both teams getting chances early on. Spectators did not have to wait long for the opening goal, as in the 10th minute, VAR spotted a handball by Marcos Alonso in the Celta area. The referee pointed to the spot and Robert Lewandowski stroked the penalty low into the corner to make it 1–0. 

Barely 60 seconds later, Celta punished the Blaugrana's highline. Sergio Carreira was played in by Borja Iglesias, rounded Wojciech Szczęsny and tapped home to level at 1–1.

Barcelona edged back in front through a well-worked move in the 37th minute. Marcus Rashford delivered a pinpoint cross that Lewandowski met and tucked away, making it 2–1. 

The momentum swung again before half-time when Borja Iglesias ghosted into space and fired a powerful finish past Szczęsny to restore parity.

As stoppage ticked on, Barça launched one last attack: Lamine Yamal raced in behind the defence and beat goalkeeper Ionuț Radu with a powerful right-foot strike after Rashford's cutback was deflected into his path. 

The second half saw Barcelona regain control of possession and calm the game, but Celta remained dangerous on the break. 

Barcelona cushioned their lead with another goal in the 73rd minute when another Rashford cross, from a corner kick this time, found Lewandowski, who flicked a composed header beyond Radu to complete his hat-trick and make it 4–2, effectively sealing the result. 

Tension flared late: Frenkie de Jong received a second yellow deep into stoppage time (90+4′) for a reckless challenge, and Barça were forced to see out the final moments with ten men. Despite Celta’s late intent, Barcelona’s defence held firm until the final whistle.