Robert Lewandowski’s first-half hat-trick propelled FC Barcelona to a comfortable 3-0 win over Alaves, restoring their three-point lead at the top of La Liga.
After a rare defeat last week, Barcelona bounced back with a dominant performance, with Lewandowski netting all three of his goals within the opening 32 minutes.
While Alaves fought valiantly, their efforts were ultimately thwarted by Barcelona’s defensive solidity and Lewandowski’s clinical finishing.
In other La Liga action, Atletico Madrid’s early lead against Real Sociedad was equalized late in the match, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
Girona got back to winning ways with a remarkable 2-1 home victory over Athletic Bilbao which saw goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga save three penalties, from Alex Berenguer, Inaki Williams and Ander Herrera, before Cristhian Stuani netted the winner nine minutes into stoppage time from the penalty spot.
Finally, Sevilla edged out rivals Real Betis 1-0 thanks to a second-half penalty from Dodi Lukebakio.