Robert Lewandowski sent a resounding message about his future at Barcelona by netting a hat-trick to orchestrate a remarkable comeback against Valencia.
Speculation swirled before the match regarding Xavi Hernandez’s potential decision to bench Lewandowski. However, the Polish striker silenced any doubts with a stellar performance against a formidable Valencia side.
Barcelona initially seized the lead through Fermin Lopez’s header, only for Valencia to swiftly equalize as Hugo Duro capitalized on Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s mistake. The tide turned further in Valencia’s favor as they took the lead with a penalty converted by Pepelu after Ronald Araujo’s foul in the box.
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Despite defensive vulnerabilities, Barcelona found hope as Lewandowski deftly flicked in a corner to level the score. In the dying moments, Lewandowski emerged as the hero once more, heading in Barcelona’s third goal from a corner before sealing his hat-trick with a powerful free-kick in stoppage time, securing the victory.
Valencia’s momentum was disrupted by Giorgi Mamardashvili’s red card just before halftime, which ultimately paved the way for Barcelona’s resurgence.
The match also marked Xavi’s debut as Barcelona’s head coach, following his return to the club.