Xavi maintained his 100% record in La Liga action this weekend as Barcelona battled back to win 3-1 at Villarreal.
La Blaugrana clinched a 1-0 win over Espanyol in Xavi’s debut last weekend but their midweek 0-0 draw with Benfica reignited concerns over his squad.
But despite enduring a difficult night at El Madrigal, the Catalan giants now move up to ninth in the table overnight.
Dutch star Frenkie de Jong put the visitors ahead after the restart, as VAR ruled in his favour, following referee Cesar Soto Grado’s original decision to disallow the goal for offside.
Frenkie de Jong gives Barcelona the lead against Villarreal! 🔵🔴
Originally ruled out for offside, VAR overturned the decision and the goal stands 🔥 pic.twitter.com/vEH9PGnDSX
— Premier Sports (@PremierSportsTV) November 27, 2021
However, despite looking set to cruise on for all three points, Barcelona were pegged back on 76 minutes as Samuel Chukwueze prodded home a superb leveller.
Villarreal are level! 🟡
Samu Chukwueze with an excellent finish to beat ter Stegen 😮 pic.twitter.com/xSVU8Hcdfg
— Premier Sports (@PremierSportsTV) November 27, 2021
The Nigerian’s intervention set up a tense finale for Barcelona, but key man Memphis Depay reacted to a defensive mix up to slot them back in front, in the final minutes.
Memphis Depay comes up with what should be a late winner! 🔥
Route one rather than tiki-taka, but Barcelona won’t mind this time! 🔵🔴 pic.twitter.com/n53mGAs6dm
— Premier Sports (@PremierSportsTV) November 27, 2021
Substitute Philippe Coutinho added a third goal from the penalty spot in added time after being fouled by Juan Foyth inside the box.
Up next for Barcelona is a home game against Real Betis next weekend with Villarreal at Victoria CF in midweek Copa del Rey action.
Images via Getty Images
