In a tough La Liga encounter, young Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez scored twice to seal a hard-earned 2-0 triumph over Almeria.
At just 21 years old, Lopez soared to his 10th goal of the season, marking a stellar breakthrough in his career amidst a challenging match where Barcelona grappled with their already-relegated opponents.
Leading up to the game, reports surfaced in the Spanish media indicating Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s absence, purportedly due to dissatisfaction with coach Xavi Hernandez’s pre-match statements. “They haven’t told me anything personally… we travelled with the sporting vice-president, more directors, all normally,” Xavi told reporters.
“I said what I think is real, that we will fight for all the trophies, with a lot of hope, with ambition, but that the situation is not easy. We are working very well, the club most of all, to change this situation,” Xavi added.
Back in January, amidst the team’s faltering form, the coach announced his impending departure at the season’s end. However, a change of heart ensued in April following a commendable run of form, despite their Champions League exit in the quarter-finals.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid effortlessly wrested the title away from Barcelona’s grasp, enduring just one defeat and clinching the league with four games to spare, while also securing a berth in the Champions League final.
Although Barcelona’s trophy cabinet remains empty this season, they stand on the brink of securing the runner-up spot, edging past Girona, now trailing by four points.
Lopez’s brace in the southeast of Spain sealed the deal, yet Barcelona’s performance against their relegated adversaries left much to be desired. The breakthrough arrived in the 14th minute, with Lopez showcasing his predatory instincts by meeting Hector Fort’s cross with impeccable timing and nodding home to give Barcelona the lead.
Almeria’s Leo Baptistao squandered a golden opportunity in the first half, miscuing his shot wide despite being well-positioned.
As Barcelona pressed for a second, Lamine Yamal posed a threat, while Adri Embarba rattled the woodwork at the opposite end. Anthony Lozano’s wayward effort with the goal at his mercy epitomized Almeria’s struggles this season.
Lopez doubled Barcelona’s advantage in the 67th minute, latching onto Sergi Roberto’s delivery with aplomb, effectively dashing Almeria’s hopes of salvaging anything from the game.
