The Brazilian star made an instant impact after coming off the bench, helping Hansi Flick’s side avoid a potentially embarrassing setback in the La Liga title race.
Barcelona Battle Back to Beat Valladolid and Stay Ahead in La Liga Title Race
Barcelona secured a crucial three points in the race for the La Liga title, coming from behind to beat bottom-placed Real Valladolid 2-1 on Saturday.
With one eye on their Champions League semi-final clash against Inter, Hansi Flick fielded a heavily rotated lineup. The league leaders may have expected a straightforward win against an already-relegated Valladolid side, but the hosts came out with freedom and confidence, taking a surprise lead in the sixth minute through Ivan Sanchez. 
Barça struggled to find rhythm in a frustrating first half. However, the momentum shifted after the break when Flick introduced Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong. The Brazilian winger made an immediate impact, capitalising on a poor punch from Valladolid goalkeeper Andre Ferreira to score his 31st goal of the season and level the match.
Fermin Lopez put the visitors ahead around the hour mark, coolly finishing from the edge of the box after a smart cutback from Gerard Martin. Barcelona pushed for a third, with Hector Fort striking the post and Lamine Yamal—who came on early due to injury—having a shot cleared off the line.
Marc-André ter Stegen, making his long-awaited return in goal, produced a key save late on to deny Valladolid an equaliser. The win temporarily extends Barcelona’s lead over Real Madrid to seven points, with Los Blancos set to face Celta Vigo on Sunday.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Marc-André ter Stegen – 7/10
Making his return after months on the sidelines, Ter Stegen was caught off guard for the early goal but had little else to do for much of the match. However, he reminded everyone of his quality with a crucial save late on to preserve the lead—proof that class really is permanent.
Héctor Fort – 6/10
Stepped in for the injured Jules Koundé and nearly capped his performance with a brilliant solo goal, only to be denied by the post. Showed flair and confidence in attack, echoing the style of teammate Lamine Yamal.
Ronald Araújo – 6/10
Solid defensively and made his presence felt up front too. His aerial pressure on the goalkeeper played a key role in the misjudged punch that led to Barcelona’s equaliser.
Andreas Christensen – 6/10
Back in the starting XI for the first time since the season opener, Christensen looked composed despite the early setback. A steady showing on a big night for him personally.
Gerard Martin – 8/10
After a shaky showing against Inter, this was a strong response. Delivered a well-timed assist for the winning goal and looked more assured throughout. A timely performance, especially with Alejandro Balde still sidelined.
Midfield
Pedri – 7/10
Showed flashes of brilliance in the first half with his trademark vision and passing, creating several opportunities. Was withdrawn at halftime, likely with rotation in mind ahead of the Champions League second leg.
Fermín López – 7/10
Came up with the decisive moment, finishing coolly to put Barcelona ahead. Always lively and a constant threat going forward—his influence continues to grow.
Gavi – 7/10
A typically combative and intelligent display, effective both in possession and pressing off the ball. His early exit due to injury will be a worry, especially with key fixtures on the horizon.
Attack
Dani Rodríguez – 6/10
Handed a senior debut in a high-pressure moment, the teenager showed glimpses of promise early on. Unfortunately, his night was cut short by what appeared to be a dislocated shoulder—a cruel end to a landmark occasion.
Pau Víctor – 5/10
Given just his second La Liga start, Víctor struggled to make an impact. With only 12 touches in an hour on the pitch, he failed to stake a serious claim for more minutes.
Ansu Fati – 6/10
Eager to impress on a rare start, Fati forced a strong save from the Valladolid keeper in the first half. Worked hard, but was replaced at the break as Flick looked to shake things up.
Raphinha made a game-changing impact off the bench, scoring the equaliser just minutes into the second half. His sharp reactions and composure after capitalizing on a goalkeeper error showed exactly why he’s become such a vital weapon in Hansi Flick’s squad. His 31st goal of the season underlines both his consistency and importance in Barcelona’s title charge.
Raphina the savoir
Raphinha made a game-changing impact off the bench, scoring the equaliser just minutes into the second half. His sharp reactions and composure after capitalizing on a goalkeeper error showed exactly why he’s become such a vital weapon in Hansi Flick’s squad. His 31st goal of the season underlines both his consistency and importance in Barcelona’s title charge.
