Osasuna pulled off a thrilling 4-2 victory over La Liga leaders Barcelona on Saturday, marking the visitors’ first defeat of the season. Croatian forward Ante Budimir was the hero of the night, netting two crucial goals that sent shockwaves through the league.
The match began with high intensity as Bryan Zaragoza, on loan from Bayern Munich, delivered a precise cross to Budimir, who headed the ball into the net from close range in the 18th minute. Just ten minutes later, the 23-year-old forward capitalized on a swift counterattack to double Osasuna’s lead, leaving Barcelona stunned.
Barcelona sought to mount a comeback, and their efforts paid off when a mishap by Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera allowed Pau Víctor’s seemingly routine shot to slip through in the 53rd minute, reducing the deficit to 2-1. However, Osasuna remained undeterred. In the 72nd minute, Budimir was fouled inside the box, earning a penalty which he confidently converted to restore a two-goal cushion.
The excitement didn’t end there. Substitute Abel Bretones extended Osasuna’s lead to 4-1 with a spectacular long-range strike in the 83rd minute, igniting celebrations among the home fans. Barcelona’s young talent, Lamine Yamal, added a late goal in the 89th minute with a shot from the edge of the box, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Despite the loss, Barcelona remains at the top of the standings with 21 points, four points ahead of second-placed Real Madrid. Real Madrid, with a game in hand, are set to face local rivals Atlético Madrid on Sunday night, adding more intrigue to the title race.
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Budimir's brace helps Osasuna stun La Liga leaders Barcelona 4-2
cgtn.com
