Barcelona came from behind to defeat Real Valladolid and extend their lead over Real Madrid to seven points at the top of La Liga.
Substitutes Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scored within six minutes of each other in the second half, after Ivan Sanchez had given Valladolid an unexpected early lead at Estadio José Zorrilla.
Hansi Flick fielded a weakened team, making nine changes to the lineup that drew 3-3 with Inter Milan in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday, with the second leg in Italy on his mind for Tuesday.
Sanchez opened the scoring with a heavily deflected shot from a tight angle, but that was the highlight for the already relegated Valladolid.
Despite falling behind, Barcelona dominated the match throughout. The introduction of Lamine Yamal in the 38th minute, replacing the injured debutant Dani Rodriguez, further elevated their performance.
Raphinha’s 16th La Liga goal of the season—a well-placed shot from the edge of the area—ignited the comeback, and Lopez soon followed up to put the league leaders ahead.
Barcelona continued to press for a third goal, with right-back Hector Fort hitting the base of the post and Yamal having an effort cleared off the line.
Barcelona remains unbeaten in 15 league matches, winning 13 of them, and they have triumphed in 17 of their past 19 encounters against Valladolid.
Real Madrid, who will visit Barcelona on May 11, have the opportunity to narrow the gap at the top of the table to four points when they host Celta Vigo on Sunday.
