Flick's Barcelona Edge Leganés 1-0 To Strengthen La Liga Lead

Barcelona extended their unbeaten run to 24 games in La Liga, but they were far from convincing in their 1-0 victory over relegation-threatened Leganés at the Estadio Municipal de Butarque.

The match was decided by an own goal from Leganés defender Jorge Sáenz in the 48th minute, following a cross from Raphinha, with Robert Lewandowski lurking behind him to tap the ball in.

Despite the narrow scoreline, Leganés had the better chances in the first half.

Adria Altimira forced a good save from Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, and Dani Raba came close on two occasions.

However, the home side could not break the deadlock, and Barcelona capitalized on their luck after the own goal.

The win allowed Barcelona to extend their lead at the top of La Liga to seven points, with Real Madrid due to play on Sunday.

Manager Hansi Flick made just two changes from the side that triumphed 4-0 over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, but Barcelona’s performance was disjointed, despite securing an eighth consecutive away win in all competitions.

They were dealt a blow in the first half when influential left-back Alejandro Balde was forced off with an injury.

Lewandowski continued the pursuit of his 100th Barcelona goal but was left frustrated, missing a chance off a fine Raphinha cross.

Despite their struggles, Barcelona’s victory put them firmly in control of the title race as they look ahead to their Champions League tie against Borussia Dortmund next week.