Barcelona Secures Dramatic Comeback Victory with Late Penalty

Barcelona staged a remarkable comeback, clinching a 2-1 victory against Las Palmas in La Liga, courtesy of İlkay Gündoğan’s stoppage-time penalty on Thursday. The underdogs, Las Palmas, initially seized the lead with Munir El Haddadi’s goal in the 12th minute. Ferran Torres leveled the score for Barcelona in the 55th minute, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.

The pivotal moment arrived when Gündoğan, allegedly pushed in the back by Daley Sinkgraven, was awarded a penalty. Sinkgraven received a red card for the foul. Gündoğan coolly converted the penalty in the 93rd minute, securing crucial three points for the Blaugrana.

Las Palmas expressed discontent with the referee’s decision, with midfielder Kirian Rodríguez confronting the official post-match. However, Barcelona manager Xavi defended the penalty call, stating, “If you talk to me about the penalty, it seems clear to me.”

The encounter was marked by tension, resulting in seven yellow cards and Sinkgraven’s red card. Despite the contentious nature of the match, Barcelona’s win propels them to third place in La Liga. The victory strengthens their pursuit of Real Madrid and Girona, both sitting seven points ahead as the league title race reaches its midpoint.