Barcelona sealed its **28th Spanish league title** on Thursday night with a commanding 2-0 victory over crosstown rival **Espanyol**, thanks to a dazzling performance from 17-year-old sensation **Lamine Yamal**. The win also marked a domestic double for the Catalan giants, having already secured the **Copa del Rey**, and capped off a stellar first season under **coach Hansi Flick**.
Yamal broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute with a signature curling strike after gliding past two defenders—yet another highlight in a breakout season that’s confirmed his status as one of world football’s rising stars.
Substitute **Fermín López** added a second goal in stoppage time, shortly after **Leandro Cabrera** of Espanyol was sent off for striking Yamal in the stomach during a scuffle. Despite early pressure from Espanyol, including a missed chance by **Javi Puado**, it was Barcelona that found its rhythm and took control after the break.
The win leaves Barcelona with two games to spare and continues their dominance over **Real Madrid** this season, with **four victories in four Clásico clashes** across all competitions. Madrid’s midweek win over Mallorca briefly delayed Barça’s coronation, but only two points were needed from the final three games.
**Fan Reaction: A New Era of Excitement**
The mood among fans was jubilant, with many seeing this as more than just a title win.
“I feel this is a project being born. Something strong and long lasting,” said **Jordi Poll**, a 34-year-old software engineer. “This team is engaging people who usually didn’t watch games. People telling me that they like to watch the games now. This is a generational team.”
**Jana Torras**, a 20-year-old student, echoed the excitement: “I am so happy, truly. This team is wonderful. Pity about the Champions League. But we’ve won three out of four titles. Not bad. Next season we will go for more.”
**Espanyol**, meanwhile, faces a tougher path ahead. Sitting in 16th place and just five points clear of the relegation zone, the club will need a strong finish to ensure top-flight survival.