Robert Lewandowski’s remarkable 26-minute hat-trick helped La Liga leaders Barcelona to a commanding 3-0 victory over Alaves on Sunday, pushing them three points ahead of Real Madrid. The Polish striker, who now boasts 10 goals in just nine league matches, solidified his place as the top scorer in the division with a brilliant first-half performance.
Barcelona, under new coach Hansi Flick, cruised to their eighth win in nine La Liga games, dominating from the outset at Alaves’ Mendizorroza stadium. Lewandowski and Brazilian winger Raphinha were pivotal, with Raphinha assisting the opener by delivering a perfect free-kick that Lewandowski headed into the net.
The duo combined again for Barca’s second, with Raphinha breaking down the left and providing a pinpoint cross for Lewandowski to tap in easily. Though Alaves goalkeeper Antonio Sivera managed to deny several attempts, Lewandowski completed his hat-trick after a slick move involving Marc Casado and Eric Garcia.
Alaves had their chances, with Toni Martinez hitting the post and seeing a goal ruled out for offside, while Santiago Mourino also had a goal disallowed due to the same reason. Despite a spirited effort, Alaves struggled to break through Barcelona’s high defensive line, being flagged offside 11 times.
In other La Liga action on Sunday, Atletico Madrid faced Real Sociedad, and Sevilla hosted Real Betis in a Seville derby.
