Lewandowski nets hat-trick as Barca returns to winning ways in La Liga

Three first half goals from Robert Lewandowski set Barcelona back on winning course as they defeated Alaves away from home.

Barca secured a 3-0 win over Alaves at the Estadio de Mendizorroza, after losing disappointingly to Osasuna, last weekend.

Robert Lewandowski was the star of the show for Barcelona as the prolific Pole netted a first-half hat-trick to keep Hansi Flick’s side three points clear at the top of La Liga.

Barcelona were in front in the first fourth minute of the contest, only to be denied by offside. Raphinha found the back of the net but was unlucky as Lamine Yamal was narrowly found offside.

A minute after, Robert Lewandowski Flicked home a cross from Raphinha to put the visitors in front. The former Bayern Munich man made it two with another assist from Raphinha. The Brazilian pulled off a brilliant move before giving Lewandowski the easiest of tap-ins to double Barça’s lead.

Barça continued to establish their dominance in the game and were more aggressive with their press. The Catalans almost made it 3-0 just a few seconds later when a long ball from the back put Raphinha one-on-one with Antonio Sivera. However, the keeper made a crucial save to keep his team alive in the match.

Lewandowski completed his hat-trick in the 32th minute thanks to a beautiful assist by Eric Garcia. The Spanish defender found Lewandowski, who had time and space inside the box to make it 3-0.

Alaves almost got a consolation goal in the final 10 minutes, but an offside in the buildup disallowed the goal. Barça maintained their big advantage to secure their lead in the league.

Hansi Flick’s Barcelona will head into the second international break of the season three points clear at the top of the table. Lewandowski also head into the break with a four goal lead in race for the Pichichi award.