Barcelona Ease Past Levante to Climb Back to La Liga Summit

FC Barcelona returned to winning ways with an emphatic 3–0 triumph over Levante UD, reclaiming first place in La Liga after rivals Real Madrid stumbled at the weekend.

Following Madrid’s surprise defeat at CA Osasuna, the Catalan side seized their opportunity at the Spotify Camp Nou, extending their flawless home record against Levante to 18 wins from 18 meetings.

There had been concerns surrounding Hansi Flick’s team after consecutive setbacks, including a heavy Copa del Rey defeat to Atletico Madrid and a league loss at Girona FC. However, they responded in commanding fashion against the struggling visitors.

The breakthrough arrived almost immediately. Eighteen-year-old Marc Bernal struck inside four minutes, finishing confidently after being picked out by Eric Garcia. It was Bernal’s second goal in three appearances and set the tone for the evening.

Barcelona doubled their advantage midway through the first half when Joao Cancelo surged forward and delivered a precise cross that Frenkie de Jong converted with a composed finish — his first goal in over a year.

The hosts continued to press, with Cancelo striking the woodwork and Raphinha repeatedly testing Levante goalkeeper Mathew Ryan. Jules Kounde also fired over as Barcelona searched for a third.

Despite dominating possession, Barcelona’s advanced defensive setup allowed Levante occasional openings.

Goalkeeper Joan Garcia was called into action to deny Carlos Alvarez and Jon Olasagasti. The result was put beyond doubt in the 81st minute when substitute Fermin Lopez unleashed a powerful left-footed effort from distance that clipped the inside of the post on its way in.

Ryan produced a superb double stop late on to prevent further damage, but the outcome was already sealed. The victory lifts Barcelona one point clear at the top after 25 matches, reasserting their title credentials.