Barcelona Beat Villarreal 2-0 to End Year top of La Liga Table

Barcelona closed the 2025 calendar year with a controlled 2-0 away win over Villarreal in a Matchday 17 fixture of La Liga, extending their lead at the top of the standings and reinforcing their title push.

The visitors took the lead in the 12th minute after Raphinha was brought down inside the penalty area. The winger stepped up and converted the spot kick with confidence, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Barcelona an early advantage at the Estadio de la Cerámica.

Villarreal attempted to respond through quick transitions and wide play but struggled to break down Barcelona’s organised defensive structure. Their task became significantly harder just before halftime when Renato Veiga was shown a straight red card for a late challenge on Lamine Yamal, reducing the hosts to ten men.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Villarreal began the second half with intent, pressing higher and creating brief moments of pressure. Barcelona, however, managed the game well, slowing the tempo and limiting clear chances while waiting for openings on the counter.

• Barcelona beat Villarreal 2-0 to finish 2025 four points clear at La Liga summit
• Raphinha penalty and Lamine Yamal strike seal Barcelona’s year-end victory
• Barcelona strengthen La Liga title push with controlled away win at Villarreal

The decisive moment arrived in the 63rd minute when Lamine Yamal capitalised on a loose ball inside the box and fired a low finish into the corner. The goal doubled Barcelona’s lead and effectively ended the contest, highlighting the teenager’s growing influence in key matches.

Barcelona remained composed for the remainder of the match, controlling possession and seeing out the result without unnecessary risk. The victory ensured they finished the year four points clear at the top of the league, ahead of their closest rivals.

There was some concern for the visitors late on after defender Jules Koundé was forced off with an injury, which will be assessed ahead of the winter break.

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Overall, the result capped a consistent first half of the season for Barcelona, who head into January with momentum, squad depth, and a clear advantage in the La Liga title race.