By Olaitan Ibrahim
Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick as Barcelona beat Celta Vigo 4-2 at Balaídos on Sunday to move back up the table.
Barcelona took the lead from the spot early on when Lewandowski converted a penalty, but Sergio Carreira quickly levelled for the hosts.
Lewandowski’s second, a well-taken finish from open play, put the culers back in front before Borja Iglesias drew Celta level again shortly before halftime.
Lamine Yamal restored Barcelona’s lead in stoppage time at the end of the first half to make it 3-2 at the break.
In the second half, Lewandowski completed his treble with a powerful header from a corner less than 20 minutes from time, putting the result beyond doubt and securing the victory for the visitors.
It was the Polak’s first start in a game after a thigh injury against Celta Vigo kept him off the field for over a month.
Hansi Flick’s side managed the game thereafter, surviving late pressure from Celta.
Lamine Yamal went close to a fifth for Barcelona when his effort struck the post in the closing stages.
The win pushes Barcelona to 28 points, as they chase the top of LaLiga, three points behind the leader, Real Madrid.