In a dramatic twist to an otherwise celebratory evening, newly crowned LaLiga champions Barcelona suffered a surprise 3-2 defeat at home to Villarreal, spoiling the party at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
Despite a dominant first half that saw the Blaugrana net two quick goals in a late flurry before the break, Hansi Flick’s side couldn’t maintain their momentum after the restart.
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Barcelona, who managed an expected goals (xG) tally of 1.26, were wasteful in the final third as key opportunities for Fermin López, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha went begging.Villarreal, on the other hand, were clinical when it mattered most.
Just five minutes into the second half, Santi Comesaña latched onto a clever pass from Yeremy Pino and lofted a composed finish over Marc-André ter Stegen to level the match at 2-2. The visitors, who generated 1.77 xG overall, then held firm against waves of Barcelona pressure.
As the hosts pushed for a winner, Villarreal struck the decisive blow. With just ten minutes left on the clock, substitute Tajon Buchanan ghosted into the box to meet Gerard Moreno’s inch-perfect cross, slamming home from close range to seal a memorable win.
While Barcelona still ended the night by lifting the LaLiga trophy — their first under Flick and their sixth defeat in the campaign — it was Villarreal who walked away with more than pride. The three points ensured they secured a coveted Champions League berth for next season, capping off an extraordinary performance with high stakes.
The loss marks Barça’s first league defeat of the calendar year, serving as a stark reminder that even champions can be humbled — especially by a team with everything to fight for.
