FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano

Ronald Araujo rose highest at the back post to head home Joao Cancelo's corner in the 25th minute, and that proved the difference as Barcelona ground out a 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano at the Spotify Camp Nou. It was far from comfortable. Raphinha cracked the crossbar shortly after the opener and Lamine Yamal had a strong penalty shout waved away, but Barça couldn't put the game to bed. Rayo grew bolder after the break, laying siege to the home goal for much of the second half. Goalkeeper Joan Garcia was the real hero, pulling off a string of outstanding saves to keep the visitors at bay and preserve Barcelona's slender lead. The hard-fought three points stretch Barcelona's advantage at the top of La Liga to seven points, while Rayo Vallecano stay stuck in 14th.