In the Catalan derby, Barca didn't have their best performance, but Hansi Flick's substitutions helped them pocket three points, winning 2-0 thanks to goals from Dani Olmo (86') and Lewandowski (90'), with both assists coming from another substitute: Fermin Lopez.

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Fermin Lopez led Barca to victory by assisting both Dani Olmo and Lewandowski's goals. All three came on as substitutes. Photo: FCB

With this result, Barca solidified their position at the top of La Liga , with 49 points after 19 matches played, 7 points ahead of Real Madrid , who will host Bilbao at 10:15 PM tonight (January 4th), without their 'guardian angel' Kylian Mbappe.

Although admitting that Barca didn't deserve to win for 80 minutes, until changes were made on the field and they broke through the opponent's defense, Hansi Flick also stated that " this victory sends a message to La Liga ," alluding to the title race, whose main rival is none other than Real Madrid.

“I am very happy and satisfied with the three points Barca earned. Espanyol played a fantastic game. To be honest, we didn't deserve this victory, but Barca's changes after the substitutions decided the game. And I'm very happy about that,” Hansi Flick shared after the match.

The Barca captain added: “ I have to thank Joan Garcia for his outstanding performance. He is one of the best goalkeepers in the world right now.”

The substitutes (Fermin Lopez 46', Pedri, Dani Olmo and Lewandowski all came on in the 64th minute) also showed their quality. I am very pleased with that, although not satisfied overall with the team's performance in the first 80 minutes.

But Barca scored two goals and secured three points, which sends a positive message in the La Liga race .”

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Hansi Flick sends a double declaration of war to Barca: the La Liga title race and the upcoming Spanish Super Cup. Photo: FCB

After this match, Hansi Flick and Barca will travel to Saudi Arabia to prepare for the Spanish Super Cup, with a semi-final against Bilbao (2 AM on January 8th), while Real Madrid will play Atletico (2 AM on January 9th).

And another statement from the German coach: “ Winning the Spanish Super Cup? That’s Barca’s goal. But first we have to get past Athletic Bilbao. That won’t be an easy game either, and let’s wait and see .”

With matches in both La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup happening just one day after their game, Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid faced added pressure, especially considering their opponents had already won.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/barca-hon-7-diem-hansi-flick-gui-khieu-chien-kep-den-real-madrid-2478174.html