LaLiga: Araujo header seals hard-fought Barcelona win over Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona edged past Rayo Vallecano with a narrow 1-0 victory, maintaining control of the La Liga title race despite an unconvincing attacking display.

A first-half header from Ronald Araujo proved decisive, while goalkeeper Joan Garcia delivered a standout performance to secure all three points.

Early pressure and breakthrough

Rayo Vallecano threatened immediately after kickoff and nearly opened the scoring inside the first minute, but Joan Garcia reacted quickly to deny Carlos Martin from close range.

Barcelona responded with chances of their own, though Raphinha missed a clear opportunity after breaking through on goal.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Araujo rose above the defence to meet a corner from Joao Cancelo, directing his header in off the post.

Barcelona nearly doubled their lead before the interval, but Raphinha’s deflected effort was tipped onto the crossbar.

Garcia preserves advantage

Rayo improved after the break, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. However, Garcia remained decisive in goal, producing key saves to deny Alvaro Garcia and Unai Lopez.

The hosts continued to create openings, with Alfonso Espino missing from a promising position, while Garcia again intervened to stop Jorge De Frutos.

Barcelona held firm to preserve the clean sheet, extending their lead at the top of the table to seven points ahead of Real Madrid.