Barcelona seized the top spot in La Liga on September 28, 2025, after showing great resilience to overcome a one-goal deficit and defeat Real Sociedad 2-1. 

After falling behind early, a header from Jules Kounde tied the game before Robert Lewandowski secured the win, thanks to an immediate assist from returning youth star Lamine Yamal. 

The critical victory not only moved them ahead of Real Madrid but also saw the team match a club record for scoring in 44 consecutive matches, proving that Hansi Flick’s squad has the grit and attacking power to compete for the title.

The match began with Barcelona dominating possession but failing to convert chances, a hesitancy that Real Sociedad ruthlessly punished. 

In the 31st minute, Alvaro Odriozola capitalized on a swift counterattack, tapping in a low cross to put the visitors ahead. 

Defender Jules Kounde later admitted the team “lacked intensity” and that their “defensiveness was not good enough.”

However, Barcelona showed a newfound grit. 

The equalizer came swiftly before the break when Kounde redeemed himself, powering a header into the net in the 43rd minute from a corner delivered by Marcus Rashford. 

The tension remained high, with Sociedad’s goalkeeper Alex Remiro putting in a spectacular shift of eight saves, including key stops on Dani Olmo and Rashford.

The decisive moment arrived just after the hour mark. 

Robert Lewandowski headed home the winner, with a goal that secured Barcelona’s sixth victory in seven league matches and—crucially—matched the club’s all-time record of scoring in 44 consecutive games across all competitions, a feat previously achieved between 1942 and 1944.

Coach Hansi Flick’s tactical changes proved vital to shifting the game’s momentum. 

The most impactful was the introduction of 18-year-old star Lamine Yamal in the 58th minute. 

Recently named Europe’s best young player, the winger was returning from a groin injury but needed mere seconds to make his mark, delivering a precise cross for Lewandowski’s winning header. 

Yamal’s return added a dynamic spark to an attack that had struggled with precision earlier in the half.

The goal underscored the blend of talent driving the team: a veteran striker like Lewandowski benefiting from the speed and flair of a young star. 

The growing impact of loanee Marcus Rashford also cannot be overstated, with his pinpoint assist for Kounde’s equalizer highlighting his contribution to the team’s improved set-piece threat.

Coach Flick praised the team’s spirit, acknowledging the difficulty of the match. 

“We found it very difficult, but we also deserve this win,” Flick stated. “I really appreciate how my team is playing, how they perform. I’m very proud of the team.”

This comeback victory is more than just three points; it signals a significant shift in the team’s mentality. 

With nine points earned from losing positions this season, Barcelona has demonstrated a comeback spirit that is unmatched across La Liga. 

While historic Barcelona teams were known for dominant play, this squad is showing the necessary steel to grind out results even when falling behind.

Sitting one point clear of Real Madrid with 19 points, Barcelona is firmly positioned as a title favorite. 

This form sets a high-stakes stage for their next fixture: a challenging trip to face defending Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain on October 1. 

A positive result in that European clash would further solidify the confidence gained from this crucial league victory before they return to La Liga action against Rayo Vallecano.