Late goals from Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski earned LaLiga leaders Barcelona a hard-fought 2–0 victory over Espanyol in the Catalan derby on Saturday, with goalkeeper Joan Garcia playing a key role against his former club.
Barca extended their lead atop the Spanish standings with 49 points, seven clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who host Real Betis on Sunday. Espanyol remain fifth on 33.
First win of 2026 ✅ pic.twitter.com/hXOBGmHetH
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 3, 2026
In a physical and tightly contested match Espanyol came close to opening the scoring on several occasions but it was Barcelona who struck four minutes from time when Olmo produced a superb finish into the far corner after a pass from Fermin Lopez.
What a player.
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 3, 2026
What an impact.
What a club. pic.twitter.com/9aUhtHeDXH
Lopez then surged down the right flank to set up Lewandowski in the 90th minute, providing his second assist of the night as Barcelona sealed the win and silenced a fervent RCDE Stadium.
Garcia proved crucial throughout, delivering a series of outstanding saves to frustrate Espanyol and secure the win for Barcelona, remaining composed under intense pressure from the home crowd as he faced his former club.