By Samuel Akpan with additional agency report
Barcelona secured their 28th LaLiga title after a convincing 2-0 win over Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium on Thursday night.
The Catalan giants needed just three points from their final three games, and Lamine Yamal’s stunning goal in the 53rd minute set them on their way to victory.
Fermin Lopez added a second goal in injury time, capping off a brilliant season for Hansi Flick’s side.
The 17-year-old Yamal, who has taken the league by storm, curled a sublime left-footed effort into the top corner, showcasing his exceptional skill.
Espanyol’s Leandro Cabrera was dismissed following a VAR review after elbowing Yamal, which further dampened the hosts’ hopes.
Despite some late pressures, Barcelona held firm, with Wojciech Szczesny making a couple of crucial saves to ensure a clean sheet.
“We knew it wouldn’t be an easy game, but the team showed great character and determination,” Hansi Flick said after the match.
“I’m proud of the players for their efforts, and I’m thrilled to bring home three trophies in my first season in charge.”
Flick had previously spoken about the need to show respect if his side won the title, referencing the ugly scenes that occurred two years ago when Barcelona last won the title at Espanyol’s stadium.
The German manager was seen shoving some of his stars towards the tunnel in an attempt to get them off the pitch after some nasty altercations with Espanyol players.
The hosts also turned on the sprinklers, leaving Barcelona players soaked in an attempt to dampen the celebrations.
However, the build-up to the game was marred by a shocking incident in which a car ploughed into a huge crowd of fans outside the stadium.
Reports suggest 15 people sustained injuries, but fortunately, none of them are thought to be serious.
The driver, reportedly a female, has been arrested, and the police believe it was not a deliberate attack but rather a case of losing control.
Barcelona’s victory marked the culmination of a brilliant season, which saw them pick up several statement results, including two victories over Real Madrid.
The team has been littered with talented academy graduates, including Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Gavi, Pedri, and Fermin Lopez, who have all played integral roles.
Robert Lewandowski has also netted 25 goals, while Raphinha has scored 18 and assisted nine more.
With this win, Flick becomes the second German manager to win LaLiga after Bernd Schuster in 2008.
Barcelona now hosts Villarreal this Sunday before traveling to Athletic Club in their final game of the campaign.
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