Barcelona secured a crucial win against Osasuna in their rescheduled La Liga fixture, moving three points clear at the top of the table.
Match Rescheduled After Tragic Event
This game was initially set for March 8 but was postponed minutes before kickoff. The reason? The sudden passing of Barcelona’s first-team doctor, Carles Minarro Garcia.
Flick and Kounde Criticize Scheduling
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was unhappy with the timing of this rearranged match. It took place just a day after the international break, forcing key players to miss out. One notable absentee was Raphinha, who had just returned from Brazil duty.
Defender Jules Kounde also voiced his frustration.
“It’s disrespectful to schedule the match on that date, regardless of the club,” Kounde said. “Beyond that, it’s unfair to the players. We are not machines.”
Kounde had played a full match, plus extra time and penalties, for France in their Nations League win over Croatia on Sunday.
A Dominant Display by Barcelona
Despite the tight schedule, Barcelona delivered a strong performance at their temporary Olympic Stadium home.
- Ferran Torres opened the scoring, sliding in a goal from an Alex Balde cross.
- Dani Olmo won a penalty after a foul by Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera. Although Herrera saved Olmo’s first attempt, the referee ordered a retake due to encroachment. This time, Olmo found the net. Unfortunately, he had to be substituted later due to injury.
- Robert Lewandowski sealed the win with a header, finishing off a fast counter-attack.
What’s Next for Barcelona?
With this victory, Barcelona sits three points ahead of Real Madrid and seven clear of Atletico Madrid. Their next challenge? A home clash against Girona on Sunday.
