May 24, (THEWILL) – Real Valladolid delivered a remarkable performance, moving out of the relegation zone in La Liga with a surprising 3-1 triumph over Barcelona at the Jose Zorrilla.
This crucial win elevated Paulo Pezzolano’s team to 17th place in the standings, surpassing Getafe in the process. In contrast, Barcelona continue to search for their first league victory since clinching the title two weeks ago.
Real Valladolid, coming from a five-game losing streak, displayed their intentions early, with Andreas Christensen inadvertently heading Darwin Machis’ cross into his own net just 82 seconds into the match. Despite near-misses from Machis and Raphinha, the hosts extended their advantage to 2-0 in the 22nd minute when Cyle Larin converted a penalty following Eric Garcia’s foul on Gonzalo Plata.
Barcelona fought back, but Jordi Masip’s remarkable saves denied Raphinha and Christensen from close range. Alejandro Balde’s attempt went wide shortly after half-time while Valladolid came agonisingly close to a third goal when Plata’s cross struck the outside of the post. Although Ferran Torres posed a threat as a substitute, he failed to convert Balde’s cross.
Valladolid sealed their victory in the 73rd minute when Plata calmly finished Larin’s cross, with the goal being awarded after a VAR review. A late chip from Lucas Rosa hit the post later in the game and Valladolid’s clean-sheet hopes were dashed when Lewandowski reduced the deficit in the 84th minute. No other goals came before the final whistle. Valladolid meet Almeria next as a vital showdown in their quest for La Liga survival, while Barcelona host Mallorca.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
