FOOTBALL – BARCELONA moved closer to retaining their LaLiga title with a 1-0 victory over Celta Vigo last night, but the win was overshadowed by an injury to Lamine Yamal, who scored the first-half spot kick that settled the match.
With six games remaining, Barcelona lead the standings on 82 points, nine clear of Real Madrid on 73.
The result keeps the champions firmly in control of the title race, though concern now surrounds Yamal with a Clasico looming in two weeks and the World Cup less than 50 days away.
Barcelona went ahead in the 38th minute when Yamal burst in from the right and was brought down by Yoel Lago.
The teenager dusted himself down and dispatched the resulting spot kick with a fierce low strike to the goalkeeper’s left.
However, his celebrations were short-lived. Yamal immediately fell to the turf clutching what appeared to be his left hamstring. He limped off with the help of the team’s doctors, heading straight down the tunnel to be substituted.
“We just hope that Yamal’s injury is not significant,” Barca midfielder Pedri told Movistar Plus.
“We still don’t know and I imagine we will need to wait for the medical tests tomorrow but I’m optimistic because he is young and should get back soon.
Barca controlled possession but Celta threatened first with Pablo Duran denied by Joan Garcia who flew to make a stunning one-handed save to palm away an angled strike in the first minute.
Celta forward Ferran Jutgla squandered a golden opportunity in the 15th minute, blasting over from close range when the visitors should have taken the lead.
However, Yamal proved to be decisive as he forced the penalty that he converted before leaving the game.
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