Yamal, Rashford on target as Barcelona hammer Espanyol to stretch La Liga lead

Barcelona delivered a 4-1 win over RCD Espanyol to extend their advantage over Real Madrid at the top of La Liga.

The result sees Barcelona move to 79 points, opening a nine-point gap in the title race as the season enters its final stretch.

Torres opened the game with a brace

Barcelona took control early, with Ferran Torres opening the scoring in the ninth minute with a headed finish from a corner delivered by Lamine Yamal.

Torres doubled the lead in the 25th minute after another attacking move involving Yamal, marking his first goals since January and underlining his return to form.

Despite Barcelona’s control of the game, Espanyol remained competitive, with goalkeeper Marko Dmitrović producing key saves to keep the scoreline manageable before the break.

Late goals seal emphatic win

Espanyol reduced the deficit through Paul Lozano in the 56th minute, briefly raising hopes of a comeback.

However, Barcelona regained control late on. Yamal made it 3-1 in the 87th minute after a well-timed run and calm finish, before Marcus Rashford added a fourth two minutes later, finishing off an assist from Frenkie de Jong.

The win provides strong boost for Barcelona ahead of their upcoming clash with Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, while Espanyol remain mid-table with 38 points.