BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Barcelona extended its lead in the Spanish league with a 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano and ratcheted up the pressure on Real Madrid before the game. Important derby against Atlético Madrid Later Sunday.
At the Camp Nou, Ronald Araujo scored the winning goal in the 24th minute, and Barcelona goalkeeper Joao Garcia’s impressive performance showed why he is most likely heading into the final. world cup With Spain.
Second-placed Madrid are currently seven points behind Barcelona and cannot afford to fall behind if they host rivals Atlético.
Joao Cancelo’s corner hit the far post and Araujo jumped over his marker to score.
Rafinha also gave the hosts three chances to score in the first half. He was off target at half-time, forcing goalkeeper Augusto Batala to tip his shot over the bar and into the woodwork shortly after Araujo’s goal.
Garcia saved Carlos Martin’s shot early on, blocked Unai López’s header early in the second half and narrowly converted a low shot from Jorge de Frutos in the final minute.
Garcia is Selected to represent Spain The match was played for the first time on Friday ahead of two friendlies that serve as a prelude to this summer’s World Cup.
Araujo was away from soccer from November last year until early January, due to what he said was a bout of depression caused by a long-term battle with anxiety. Since his return, the Uruguayan defender has had to play wherever he is needed, mainly as a substitute, centre-back or right-back.
His start against Rayo was his first in La Liga since returning from a mental health break.
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