Barca claims crucial win, despite Iglesias hat-trick

Barcelona secured a much-needed win over Celta Vigo to extend their league lead to seven points.

Celta’s Borja Iglesias scored an hat-trick to give his side a 3-1 lead, however, the Catalans fought back to claim a 4-3 triumph at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Meanwhile, a 98th minute penalty from Raphinha gave Hansi Flick’s side the victory to strengthen their grip on the La Liga title.

The hosts made a strong start to the game as they got the first goal, courtesy of Ferran Torres. The forward picked the ball up from deep before driving past several Celta defenders and firing into the far corner.

However, the lead only lasted three minutes as Celta hit back with immediate effect. Pablo Duran’s cross from the right was missed by Wojciech Szczesny, allowing Iglesias to tap into an empty net.

The game stayed 1-1 until half time, as both teams could not find the back of the net.

But only minutes into the second half, the visitors took charge of the game, with another Barcelona error. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong completely missed the ball, allowing Iglesias to score his second of the afternoon.

Celta extended the lead 10 minutes later, with Iglesias getting his hat-trick and Celta’s third.

However, their two-goal advantage did not last long as substitute Dani Olmo fired home to make it 3-2.

Two minutes after, Barcelona earned the comeback, after another sensational assist from Lamine Yamal. The young Spaniard sent a cross for Raphinha to level the contest.

The Catalans then claimed all three points with a last-grasp penalty from Raphinha. Olmo was adjudged to have been fouled by Yoel Lago inside the penalty area, and the Brazilian superstar sealed a victory in the 98th minute.

The win moves Barcelona seven points clear at the top of La Liga, with Real Madrid having to play Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.