Leaders Barcelona's 85th-minute victory over Osasuna with 10 men at the Nou Camp puts them in position to win La Liga in their upcoming match against neighbors Espanyol.
Less than 30 minutes into his debut for the mid-table visitors, Jorge Herrando was sent for a professional foul on Pedri, the club's eighth dismissal in La Liga this year.
However, Osasuna stayed organized and kept their rivals at bay until Alba scored the game-winning goal with the outside of his foot.
With five games left, the victory put Xavi's team 14 points ahead of Real Madrid. Later on Tuesday, Carlo Ancelotti's team suffered a 2-0 defeat against Real Sociedad; as a result, Barca will win their first championship since 2019 if they defeat Espanyol on May 14.
Prior to Herrando's dismissal, Barcelona controlled possession even though Osasuna made nine changes in preparation for their appearance in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid on Saturday in Seville.
Raphinha almost scored on a free-kick, Pedri, Ronald Araujo, and replacement Ousmane Dembele all missed opportunities, while Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati pushed Aitor Fernandez into fine saves.
However, Osasuna worked hard and succeeded on their own through Lucas Torro and Iker Munoz.
Lamine Yamal, a 15-year-old winger for Barcelona, was not utilized as a substitute. Robert Lewandowski's goal in the 79th minute was disallowed for offside before Alba's late winner had the home crowd of 76,061 jubilant.
ADD A COMMENT :
Hot Topics
User name is required Email Id is required Comment is required
ADD A COMMENT :