Barcelona edged past Rayo Vallecano with a narrow victory to reclaim the top spot in La Liga for the first time since December.
Robert Lewandowski’s first-half penalty proved decisive as Barcelona capitalised on Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid dropping points in 1-1 draws.
The Poland striker converted from the spot, sending his effort in off the post for his 20th league goal of the season after a contentious video assistant referee (VAR) decision.
Rayo midfielder Pathé Ciss was penalised for pulling down Iñigo Martínez in the box, despite the Barcelona defender being unlikely to reach the ball ahead of goalkeeper Augusto Batalla.
The visitors protested when a similar incident involving Ciss in their favour was not awarded.
Rayo thought they had levelled when Jorge de Frutos found the net, but Randy Nteka was adjudged offside for interfering with Martínez’s ability to challenge.
Barcelona missed further chances to extend their lead and survived a late scare when De Frutos headed over in stoppage time.
Hansi Flick’s side move top with 51 points, leading Real Madrid on goal difference and Atletico by a single point, with 14 matches remaining.
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