Barcelona produced a strong second-half comeback to defeat newly promoted Real Oviedo 3-1 on Thursday night, bouncing back from a costly mistake by goalkeeper Joan García. The win, their fifth in six league outings, leaves the defending champions just two points behind leaders Real Madrid after six rounds of La Liga.
A Costly Blunder Gifts Oviedo the Lead
The hosts stunned Barcelona in the 33rd minute when García, signed from Espanyol this summer, miscontrolled a clearance outside the penalty area. His misplaced touch fell straight to Alberto Reina, who unleashed a spectacular one-touch effort from nearly 40 yards out that sailed into the unguarded net.
“It was my first goal in the top flight and I’ll never forget it,” Reina said. “I saw the keeper’s mistake and knew I had to take the chance.”
Barcelona Respond Through Set Pieces
Barcelona struggled to find rhythm before halftime, but adjustments from coach Hansi Flick swung the match in their favor. In the 56th minute, Eric García leveled the score after Ferran Torres’ shot came off the post and fell kindly inside the box.
The introduction of Frenkie de Jong and Robert Lewandowski proved decisive. In the 70th minute, De Jong delivered a precise cross for Lewandowski, who powered home a header off the underside of the bar to put Barcelona ahead.
Araujo Seals It Late
With Oviedo pushing for an equalizer, Barcelona struck again. In the 88th minute, Ronald Araujo rose highest to head in Marcus Rashford’s corner, ensuring the Catalans walked away with all three points.
“It was a game of two halves,” Flick said. “We stayed calm, improved our tempo, and the changes made the difference.”
Oviedo’s Fight and Familiar Faces
Despite the defeat, Oviedo — returning to La Liga after more than two decades — showed resilience. Veteran midfielder Santi Cazorla, 40, started his first match of the season and helped steady the midfield. Goalkeeper Aaron Escandell also impressed with several key saves, particularly from Rashford and Raphinha. “All footballers dream of nights like this, playing against Barcelona,” Reina reflected. “The result didn’t go our way, but it was still special for us and our fans.”
The victory extended Barcelona’s unbeaten run to four matches across all competitions, even without injured youngster Lamine Yamal. The Catalans now prepare to host Real Sociedad on Sunday, while rivals Real Madrid face Atlético Madrid in a much-anticipated derby on Saturday.
With Madrid maintaining their perfect start, Barcelona know every point will be crucial in the early title race.
