Barca dominate Sociedad to go top of La Liga

Barcelona returned to the top of La Liga with a commanding victory over 10-man Real Sociedad, extending their winning streak to six matches.

Atletico Madrid had briefly overtaken them with a 1-0 win against Athletic Club on Saturday, but Hansi Flick’s side swiftly restored their one-point advantage in the title race. Goals from Gerard Martin, Marc Casado, Ronald Araujo, and Robert Lewandowski secured the 4-0 win at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Ninth-placed Sociedad, preparing for their Europa League last-16 clash with Manchester United on 6 March, had beaten Barcelona 1-0 in their last meeting in November. However, their task became significantly harder when Aritz Elustondo was shown a straight red card in the 17th minute for denying Dani Olmo a goal-scoring opportunity.

Barcelona quickly capitalised on the numerical advantage, with Lamine Yamal combining with Olmo to set up full-back Martin for the opener in the 25th minute. Four minutes later, Olmo’s shot deflected off Casado and into the net, marking his first goal for the club.

Araujo extended the lead in the 36th minute, heading in Raphinha’s inswinging corner just moments after Pedri had struck the woodwork.

Lewandowski completed the rout on the hour mark, diverting Araujo’s shot past Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro to wrap up a comfortable win for the reigning champions.