Lewandowski and Depay destroy 10-man Elche as Barça go top

Barcelona finish the day at the top of the La Liga standings. Xavi's team wanted to get their hopes up again after the hard defeat against Bayern in the Champions League and they have done so thanks to a win against Elche. It is now the fifth consecutive La Liga win for the home side and the fourth loss in a row for Elche. 

The visitors started the game in disastrous style. Frenkie de Jong made a very good long pass to Lewandowski but Verdu, in order to prevent the striker from receiving it, fouled the striker and the Elche centre-back was sent off. Elche were forced to play most of the game with 10 players. 

The Catalan giants didn't take long to take advantage of this and took the lead in the 33rd minute. Pedri found Balde on the left flank and the winger squared the ball to the far post. Lewandowski, who was there, pushed it into the net.

Just seven minutes later, Depay extended the lead with a stunning goal. Balde found Depay inside the box. The Dutchman received, turned and smashed the ball into the net. The 'Cules' had a chance to score the third before the break but Badia prevented it.

However, just two minutes into the second half, Lewandowski scored his brace. Kounde found Dembele on the edge of the box on the right flank and the Frenchman crossed the ball in. The ball was cleared by the Elche defence but fell into Lewandowski's boots, who only had to push it into the net.

 

September 17, 2022