Lamine Yamal delivered a standout performance, scoring once and providing two assists as FC Barcelona defeated RCD Espanyol 4-1 in the Catalan derby on Saturday.

The teenager’s display proved decisive as Barcelona secured a comfortable victory to strengthen their position at the top of La Liga.

Ferran Torres gave Barcelona an early advantage, heading home from Yamal’s corner in the ninth minute before doubling the lead midway through the first half with a composed finish off a rabona assist from the winger.

Espanyol responded through Pol Lozano, who reduced the deficit with a well-taken strike, briefly raising hopes of a comeback.

However, Barcelona regained full control late in the game, with Yamal finding the net in the 87th minute to mark his 100th appearance for the club. Marcus Rashford added a fourth goal moments later to seal the emphatic win.

Yamal’s milestone appearance makes him the youngest player in Barcelona’s history to reach 100 matches, achieving the feat at just 18 years and 272 days.

The victory was further significant for Barcelona as it followed a slip by Real Madrid, allowing the league leaders to extend their advantage at the summit.

With 79 points from 31 matches, Barcelona now hold a nine-point lead over their closest rivals with seven games remaining, tightening their grip on the title race.