Lamine Yamal’s Magic Seals La Liga Title for Barca

This season truly belonged to Lamine Yamal. So it was fitting that he scored the goal that secured Barcelona’s 28th La Liga title. And what a goal it was—one that will be remembered for a long time.

Still just 17 and wearing braces, Yamal scored the opening goal in Barcelona’s 2–0 win over Espanyol in the Spanish derby on Thursday. He skillfully dribbled past two defenders and curled the ball into the net with his trademark left foot.

That brilliant strike was the perfect way to end a long and exciting season. After helping Spain win the U-17 European Championship last year, Yamal has stepped up for Barcelona this season with outstanding goals, dribbles, and playmaking. He has emerged as one of the brightest young stars in world football. Alongside teammates like Raphinha and Pedri, Yamal played a big part in keeping Barcelona unbeaten.

“I always try to score. I’m happy my shot worked today and that I could help the team,” Yamal said after the game.

Late in the second half, Espanyol’s Leandro Cabrera kicked Yamal in the stomach and was sent off with a red card. In stoppage time, Fermin Lopez added a second goal to seal the win.

With two games still remaining, Barcelona wrapped up the title early. The team also won the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup, completing a domestic treble. They had also reached the Champions League semi-finals, but narrowly lost to Inter Milan.

Under coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona won 15 matches, drew 2, and defeated Real Madrid in all four El Clasico clashes this season. The title celebration ended with players dancing under sprinklers on the pitch. Pedri, who recently reached 200 appearances at just 22, said, “Winning a league isn’t something that happens every day. We must value it.”

Lionel Messi congratulated his former club on Instagram, and even rivals Real Madrid offered their congratulations on X (formerly Twitter). Thousands of fans took to the streets to celebrate the victory.

Yamal credited much of the team’s success to their new coach. “We learned a lot under Xavi, but Flick has given us fresh energy,” he said. Flick also expressed joy over the team’s achievements: “Barcelona should always win titles. Winning three is something special. After the disappointment in Milan, this is a great feeling.”

Espanyol played well in the first half, with Urko Gonzalez missing a key chance. But Yamal’s goal in the 53rd minute changed everything. Even a full-stretch dive from Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia—who is rumored to be joining Barcelona soon—couldn’t stop it. “Yamal scored two similar goals in training today. We’re lucky to have him,” said Pedri.

Espanyol remain in 16th place, just five points above the relegation zone. They needed a better result in this city derby. Unfortunately, clashes broke out outside the stadium early in the game, injuring several fans. Police said the incident was unrelated to the match.