Teenage Star Yamal Inspires Barcelona's Comeback Win Over Sociedad

On September 29, 2025, Barcelona moved to the top of the La Liga table with a narrow 2-1 win over Real Sociedad. The victory was powered by the return of teenage star Lamine Yamal, who had missed the previous four games due to a groin injury.

Despite Barcelona's early dominance, it was the visitors who struck first. Álvaro Odriozola converted Ander Barrenetxea's cross in the 31st minute, punishing sloppy defending from the champions. However, Barcelona's persistence paid off before half-time, as Jules Kounde headed in from a Marcus Rashford corner to level the scores.

The introduction of Yamal and Dani Olmo in the second half proved to be the turning point. Just over a minute after coming on, the 18-year-old Yamal drove into the box and set up Lewandowski, who headed in via the post to complete the turnaround.

Barcelona were forced to hang on late, with Wojciech Szczesny making a crucial save to deny Mikel Oyarzabal. Both Takefusa Kubo and Lewandowski also hit the crossbar in a frenetic finish, but Barça held on to claim all three points and move to the top of the league.

"I'm very happy for Yamal, very pleased that he's back because we're going to need him," said Kounde after the match.