Robert Lewandowski produced a stunning back heel finish during Barcelona’s 4-0 win over Real Valladolid in the La Liga on Sunday.
Xavi’s side have had a decent start to the season. After drawing 0-0 in their first match against Rayo Vallecano, they turned on the style as they comfortably dispatched Real Sociedad 4-1 last week, with Lewandowski scoring twice.
On Sunday, the Polish striker was in the mood again as the Catalan giants thrashed Valladolid 4-0 at the Camp Nou.
Having hit the post on two occasions in the opening stages, it was Lewandowski who gave Barcelona the lead in the 24th minute with a far post finish after Raphinha’s pin point cross.
Advert
Spanish midfielder Pedri made it 2-0 just before the half time interval with a curling shot into the top left corner.
The third goal of the match was for sure the pick of the bunch, winger Ousmanne Dembele played a wonderful pass into the box for Lewandowski, who took the ball into his stride before producing an outrageous back heel finish that left Valladolid goalkeeper Jordi Masip helpless.
In truth, there was a slight deflection but the audacity to try a back heel in that position was something else.
Advert
Lewandowski had a chance to complete a hat trick but was denied by the goalkeeper, but Sergi Roberto was in the right place to put the rebound into the back of the net.
As a result of that win, Barcelona are now third in the La Liga table, two points behind Real Betis and Real Madrid.
After the match, Xavi praised Lewandowski.
Advert
He said: “Lewandowski is a natural goalscorer, but he also helps us a lot in defence. We all know what Lewandowski can do. He’s a striker of the highest calibre.
“I think Lewandowski is an extraordinary player. He is a natural leader and a born worker. He is an example for the squad.”
Xavi added: “Lewandowski is adaptable. He helps his colleagues and even helps us as the technical staff. It’s great to have him with us.
Advert
“Apart from the goals, I want to highlight Lewandowski’s timing. He has the ball and protects it often.”
Up next for Barcelona is a trip to the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan as the take on Sevilla, they will hope to continue their unbeaten start to the season.
Topics: Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski, Real Valladolid, La Liga