Barça unstoppable at Villarreal: victory seals winter champions title

Raphinha’s spot-kick and Lamine’s brilliant finish sealed a crucial win for Barcelona. Villarreal was reduced to 10 men following Renato Veiga’s red card. They were unable to respond. This win on Sunday, December 21, ensures that Barcelona will end 2025 with a bang and be the clear leader at the midway point of La Liga.

Villarreal’s Fortress finally breached

The game was originally considered for Miami but remained at Villarreal’s Estadio de la Cerámica. Historically, Villarreal has been a difficult venue, yet Barcelona remain unbeaten there since the 2007–08 season under Rijkaard. Despite their recent setback at Stamford Bridge, the Blaugrana imposed themselves through determination and clinical finishing, with goalkeeper Joan García keeping them secure.

The absence of key players tested both teams

Villarreal was missing up to nine players, while Barcelona was without key midfielders Pedri, Dani Olmo, and others. Pedri was absent, which allowed Frenkie De Jong to make his return to the starting XI. However, the rhythm of the team changed without the Tenerife player. Marcelino’s team is renowned as a tight defensive unit with dangerous counterattacks. Barcelona has a difficult task.

Early chances can set the tone

Pepe’s head almost opened the scoring. Barcelona’s first real chance proved decisive: Raphinha controlled a Lamine delivery from a corner, beat Comesaña, and won a penalty after an exchange with Luiz Junior. Raphinha scored calmly to highlight his importance along side Lamine. A second shot by the Brazilian struck the crossbar to keep the game tension despite Villarreal’s early dominance.

Barcelona’s poise pays off

Villarreal’s energetic play pushed the Blaugrana to be a little shaky at times in possession. Eric García had to cover for Gerard Martín, and midfielders De Jong and Fermín struggled to impose control. Renato Veiga’s foul on Lamine earned him a red-card and Villarreal was numerically disadvantageous.

Lamine seals the victory

Barcelona slowly took control and substitutes gave the game new energy. Lamine’s left-footed goal doubled the advantage, putting an end to any Villarreal hopes of a comeback. Joan García’s key saves, particularly from Mikautadze, ensured a clean sheet. Marc Bernal was present to help the team close the game efficiently.

Champions of Winter

Barcelona now has eight straight wins after ending Villarreal’s six-game win streak. They finish as winter champions, four points clear of Real Madrid, heading into their next fixture at Cornellà in 2026 after a remarkable 2025.