Barcelona moved within touching distance of the La Liga crown on Wednesday night, securing a gritty 1-0 win over Celta Vigo to extend their lead at the summit to nine points.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal proved to be the protagonist, winning and converting a 40th-minute penalty after being brought down by Yoel Lago following a dazzling solo run.
The joy at the Spotify Camp Nou was instantly tempered, however, as the 18-year-old clutched his hamstring immediately after scoring and was forced off before the interval.
Club sources have since indicated a suspected hamstring tear, a diagnosis that would likely end Yamal’s domestic season and cast serious doubt on his participation in the 2026 World Cup.
The injury crisis deepened for Hansi Flick as veteran defender João Cancelo was also substituted early, leaving a depleted Blaugrana to defend their slender advantage for over 50 minutes.
The match was further marred by a 15-minute delay due to a medical emergency in the stands, contributing to a disjointed performance from a side still reeling from their European exit.
Despite the lack of attacking fluidity, Joan García’s heroic saves ensured Barcelona maintained their cushion over Real Madrid with only six matches remaining in the campaign.
The title race now builds toward a potentially decisive El Clásico on May 10, where Flick’s men could mathematically secure the trophy against their eternal rivals.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente will be watching the medical reports with bated breath, as Yamal has developed into a central pillar for the national team ahead of their June 15 opener.
