La Liga: Raphinha Heads Barca Into 10-Point Lead With 1-0 Win Over Valencia

Barcelona continued their impressive form in La Liga, as they held on with ten-man to beat Valencia 1-0 and move 10 points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table.

The victory was secured thanks to Raphinha's early header, which proved to be the difference between the two sides.

The Brazilian winger nodded in Sergio Busquets' lofted pass to give the Catalans the lead in the 16th minute. Despite missing several key players, including top scorer Robert Lewandowski and midfield duo Pedri and Gavi, Barcelona did enough to secure the win.

Valencia had a chance to level the scores when they were awarded a penalty early in the second half. However, Ferran Torres hit the post from the spot, before Barca's Ronald Araujo was sent off for pulling down Hugo Duro.

The hosts retreated in the final half-hour but survived the pressure from Valencia to secure all three points. The win was a significant step towards their first league title since 2019 and followed their 1-0 Copa del Rey semifinal first-leg triumph over Real Madrid.

Despite their victory, Barcelona will be without Araujo for their next game, while Madrid can cut the gap back to seven points if they win their game later in the day. Coach Xavi Hernandez was also suspended for the match, with his brother and assistant Oscar in the dugout.

Raphinha's fifth league goal of the season proved to be vital for Barcelona, as his recent form has helped the team cope with the absence of Ousmane Dembele. Although the forward has not consistently shone since his move from Leeds United last summer, his goals in recent weeks have been crucial for the Catalans.

Barcelona's defense, led by goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, held firm to secure their 18th La Liga clean sheet of the season. Although Valencia put pressure on Barcelona in the latter stages of the game, they were unable to trouble Ter Stegen.

In conclusion, Barcelona's narrow victory over Valencia was a crucial win in their pursuit of the La Liga title. Despite missing several key players and being reduced to ten men, the Catalans did enough to secure all three points and move ten points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table.