XtraTime Web Desk: Ivan Rakitic came to the rescue of Barcelona in the La Liga clash against Athletic Club on Tuesday night at Camp Nou. The Croatian international scored the winner in the 71st minute after coming in as a substitute for Sergio Busquets in the 65th minute. The win took Barcelona back to the pole position with 68 points from 31 matches. Second placed Real Madrid can regain the top spot if they win against Mallorca on Wednesday.
The Catalans needed to win after failing to get full points against Sevilla on Friday night. Madrid with a 2-1 win against Real Sociedad on Sunday took the top position in the La Liga for the first time this season.
Barcelona was desperate to return to the win ways, but it wasn’t easy against a resolute Athletic defence.
The only goal came after a nifty touch from Lionel Messi which left Rakitic in on goal on the right side of the box, and the Croat did not miss the opportunity.
This result means Barca will remain in first place as long as Real Madrid fails to win on Wednesday.
Other results in La Liga on Tuesday (June 23, 2020)
Levante 0-1 Atletico Madrid
Real Valladolid 1-1 Getafe