Lewandowski Scores Twice as Barca Thrash Sevilla to Stay Top of La Liga

Robert Lewandowski and Pablo Torre both scored two goals as Barcelona defeated Sevilla 5-1 on Sunday, maintaining a three-point lead over Real Madrid at the top of La Liga ahead of next weekend's Clasico.

While Real Madrid secured a victory against Celta Vigo on Saturday, Barcelona quickly responded with an impressive performance. Lewandowski's goals marked his tally at 12 in 10 La Liga matches, with Pedri Gonzalez also finding the net from the edge of the box and Torre scoring after coming on as a substitute.

Sevilla's Stanis Idumbo managed a consolation goal in the later stages of the match, marking a disappointing return for Francisco Garcia Pimienta, who spent nearly three decades at the club in various roles.

Torre concluded the scoring with a free-kick that eluded Sevilla goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, hitting the far post.

"It was very important, given the games ahead, but this was an important game (too) and we got the three points," Pedri said to Movistar. "Just before the game, the coach said the space was just outside the area and I had the luck (to score)."

Despite significant upcoming matches against Bayern Munich in the Champions League and the clash with Real Madrid, coach Hansi Flick fielded a strong lineup. Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez, and Gavi were available on the bench after recovering from injuries, with Gavi making his first appearance since November 2023 following knee surgery.

Ansu Fati started for the first time this season due to Eric Garcia's discomfort during the warm-up, and Raphinha moved into a central attacking midfield role. Lamine Yamal, back from a minor hamstring strain, had an early shot that went off target after a strong run past two Sevilla defenders.

Barcelona took the lead when Raphinha was awarded a penalty after being brought down in the box by Peque, a former youth player at Barcelona. Lewandowski converted the penalty, sending Nyland the wrong way.

Lewandowski continued his impressive form, leading the scoring charts in Spain with 12 goals, twice that of any other player. Pedri doubled the lead shortly after, thanks to a setup from Yamal. Lewandowski then scored his second before halftime by directing Raphinha's long-range effort into the net.

Sevilla faced further setbacks before the break, losing winger Chidera Ejuke to injury. In the second half, Raphinha had a goal disallowed for offside as Barcelona controlled the game, with Yamal coming close to scoring from distance.

Sevilla's Dodi Lukebakio was denied a chance by an offside call during a rare attack. Torre scored the fourth goal with a shot that took a deflection, and Gavi made a triumphant return from injury in the closing minutes to a warm reception from fans.

Pedri praised Gavi, stating, "He's a great guy, a hard worker. He deserves this moment. You can see the fans love him, and we all do."

Idumbo's goal in the 13th position for Sevilla came too late, as Torre sealed the victory with a free-kick that sneaked in at the far post, concluding a dominant display by Barcelona.