La Liga, on the verge of a panic attack

Barcelona are still alive in La Liga. Very alive. At the always tricky Mestalla, they showed some self-esteem to come from behind and win a clash that keeps them in the title race and shows they will fight until the end. It’s a warning to Atletico and Madrid. Barca may be hurt but they will not give in.

After a first half where they played well, getting into the box, creating some chances, albeit showing their lack of a killer instinct, they paid the price early in the second half. It was another Lenglet mistake. Gabriel lost him and headed it in, but Barcelona reacted strongly. Three goals in 14 minutes, a whirlwind that restored calm to the team.

Leo Messi was the protagonist. First with his bad penalty but he converted the rebound, and then with his special free-kick to make it 3-1.

Beating Valencia is near easy and Barcelona managed it despite their morale dampening defeat by Granada. They knew how to hold out at the end when they were against the ropes and it brings more excitement to a thrilling league finale. Next weekend, well, it’s Barca vs Atletico and Madrid vs Sevilla. Pure tension. There we’ll see which two sides keep in the race and which end up in trouble. We’ll see who will be the new champion.

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