Yamal Injured as Leganes Stuns Barcelona
Barcelona would suffer their second defeat in a row at the Montjuïc, as CD Leganés would go on to win 1-0. For Leganés, they win away for the first time since the 2020 season. A goal by Leganes captain Sergio Gonzales in the fourth minute via a corner would be the deciding goal for the underdogs. Barcelona's recent struggles keep rivals Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid in the title race despite winning 11 of their first 12 games.
Star forwards Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha each had their own opportunities at goal. What stood in their way was the fantastic 32-year-old Serbian keeper Marko Dmitrović. Dmitrović demonstrated a fierce presence in goal, keeping out Lewandowski and Raphinha on what would normally be goals by the two stars. Wasted chances would normally be the story for Barcelona in a game like this; however, the injury of Lamine Yamal would take the headlines.
Yamal would suffer a right ankle sprain due to a tackle from behind on a pass attempt in the 16th minute. Yamal's sprained ankle would force an early substitution in the 75th minute for Gavi. For Yamal, this happens to be an injury he has already suffered early in the season. The injury Yamal previously suffered forced him to miss three league games. In those games, Barcelona would only gain one point out of a potential nine. For Barcelona, they will have to hope Yamal's medical goes positive, as they have experienced life without him.
Barcelona's next match will be away at their longtime rival and second-place side, Atlético Madrid. A decisive game at the famous Metropolitano will determine, for the time being, who will lead La Liga. Atlético, in recent form, have shown dominance, with their last loss coming against Real Betis on October 27th. Barcelona, in recent memory, has had success against Atlético, winning their five previous matchups, outscoring them 10-2. Those wins would be under former manager Xavi Hernandez, who never lost to the side in his time. This go-around for Barcelona will include new manager Hansi Flick. For Flick and Barcelona, they just might have to play without their star boy.
