Robert Lewandowski's lethal double sinks Girona as Barcelona surge clear

Robert Lewandowski's brace, paired with strikes from Ferran Torres and an own goal, kept the Catalans three points clear of Real Madrid at La Liga's summit with just nine games remaining.

Hansi Flick's men have now plundered four or more goals in 20 matches across all competitions this season, a stat that reflects their manager's unapologetic philosophy. "We want to attack, to create chances constantly," Flick said post-match.

"That's what I love about this team, they're always hungry to score." The German tactician singled out Frenkie de Jong's lung-busting run on a counter-attack as evidence of their collective desire, adding, "It's not just the forwards; even the midfielders are pushing hard."

Girona, however, refused to roll over early. Goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga stood tall in the first half, thwarting efforts from Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo, while their backline held firm until the stroke of half-time. That's when misfortune struck, Lamine Yamal's flicked header from a free kick deflected off Ladislav Krejci past his own keeper.

"Girona defend very well and know how to keep the ball," Flick admitted. "We could've scored more in the first half, but they made it tough."

The visitors stunned Barcelona eight minutes after the break, capitalising on Araujo's error. Daley Blind's sharp pass found Arnaut Danjuma, who outpaced the defender and rifled home his fourth league goal of the season to level the score.

But Barcelona's response was ruthless. Just past the hour, Gavi's pinpoint cross found Lewandowski via Fermin Lopez's clever header, and the 36-year-old Polish striker soared to nod home his 24th LaLiga goal, pulling two clear of Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe in the Pichichi race.

Lewandowski wasn't done. A slick break saw De Jong feed him on the left, and he dispatched a clinical finish into the far corner. Torres sealed the rout late on, calmly slotting past Gazzaniga after Gerard Martin's assist. "Lewandowski's scoring crucial goals," Flick said. "I gave him my full confidence at the start of the season, and he's delivering. But I'm also delighted for Ferran, his goal was vital."

With a blockbuster El Clasico looming in May, Barcelona's title destiny could hinge on that clash. Flick, though, remained cautious: "There's a long way to go. This league can still surprise us, and that's what makes it exciting."

Lewandowski, meanwhile, is on track for a second La Liga and Pichichi double in three years, a feat that would cement his legacy in Catalonia.

Barcelona's official account posted on X, "Another night, another Lewandowski masterclass," while Flick praised his squad's intensity in a press clip shared by fans. Girona, licking their wounds, have now won just once in their last 11 away games, a stat their faithful will hope turns soon.

For now, Barcelona march on, their attacking juggernaut showing no signs of slowing.

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