Ronald Araujo’s injury-time header saved Barcelona from blushes as they came from behind to beat Real Sociedad 1-0 in La Liga on Saturday night.
The Uruguayan defender headed home in the 92nd minute to give Xavi’s side a victory they barely deserved. Real Sociedad dominated the game and had several chances to score, but were denied by Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Barcelona improved in the second half but were still second best until Araujo’s late goal.
The win moves Barcelona up to third in the table, one point behind Real Madrid, who have a game in hand.
Real Sociedad made an electric start to the game and forced Ter Stegen into a number of saves in the early stages. Mikel Oyarzabal and Take Kubo were both denied by the German goalkeeper.
Barcelona gradually improved as the first half went on, but they still struggled to create clear-cut chances. Robert Lewandowski was a peripheral figure and barely touched the ball.
Real Sociedad continued to dominate in the second half and had a number of good chances to score. However, they were unable to find a way past Ter Stegen.
Barcelona finally started to create some chances in the final stages of the game, but it was not until the 92nd minute that they found a winner. Araujo headed home Ilkay Gundogan’s corner to give Xavi’s side a dramatic victory.
It was an undeserved win for Barcelona, but it was a vital one nonetheless. Xavi’s side will need to improve significantly if they are to challenge for the title this season.
Analysis:
Barcelona’s performance against Real Sociedad was a mixed bag. They were second best for most of the game and were fortunate to be level heading into the dying moments. However, they showed great character to come back from behind and win the game.
Ronald Araujo’s late goal was a moment of magic from the Uruguayan defender. He has been one of Barcelona’s best players this season and his goal was a fitting way to end the game.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen was also excellent for Barcelona. He made a number of important saves to keep his side in the game.
Real Sociedad will be disappointed with the result, but they can take heart from their performance. They played some excellent football and created a number of chances to score. They just need to be more clinical in front of goal if they are to challenge for the top four this season.
