Barcelona, May 19, 2025: Villarreal dramatically secured a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League with an exhilarating 3-2 victory over newly-crowned La Liga champions Barcelona at the Olympic Stadium. Despite fielding a strong side just days after their title celebrations, Barça were outplayed by a determined Villarreal side led by standout performers Ayoze Pérez and Tajon Buchanan.
Match Summary
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The game began with an early strike from Pérez, who coolly slotted past Ter Stegen after a sharp setup from Nicolas Pépé. Barça’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal equalized with a stunning solo effort, adding to his growing legend following his title-clinching goal at Espanyol.
Barça then took the lead through Fermín López, who unleashed a thunderous strike from the edge of the box. But Villarreal fought back with goals from Santi Comesaña and Tajon Buchanan, the latter sealing the win in the 80th minute.
This marks Barcelona’s first home defeat of 2025 and their first La Liga loss this calendar year. However, chants of “Champions” echoed through the stadium as they were presented the trophy, capping off a sensational treble-winning campaign under Hansi Flick.
Flick’s First Season Ends in Style
Coach Flick praised his team’s progress, saying: “They adapted to the way we want to play. This is just the beginning.” Barcelona will return to the newly renovated Camp Nou next season with high expectations. For a deeper look at Flick’s tactical system, read our analysis of Barcelona’s tactical evolution.
Real Madrid and Mbappé Sign Off Strong
Elsewhere, Kylian Mbappé scored his 29th league goal as Real Madrid downed nine-man Sevilla 2-0. With Carlo Ancelotti set to step down, speculation grows around Xabi Alonso taking over. Veteran Luka Modric also featured in what could be one of his final appearances for the club.
For more on Mbappé’s incredible season, visit our full Mbappé 2025 goals breakdown.
La Liga Relegation Battle Heats Up
- Leganés kept their survival hopes alive with a 1-0 win over Las Palmas.
- Espanyol remain in danger after a 2-0 loss to Osasuna and must win their final game to avoid relegation.
- Getafe and Alavés secured safety with key wins.
Catch our in-depth guide to the 2025 La Liga relegation battle to see who’s at risk on the final day.
Champions League Race Concludes
Villarreal’s victory pushes them beyond Real Betis, who suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid. Julian Alvarez starred for Diego Simeone’s side with two goals and an assist, solidifying Atleti’s third-place finish.
Looking Ahead
As the La Liga 2024/25 season nears its conclusion, attention turns to the final relegation clashes and the summer transfer window. With major managerial changes looming and top clubs like Madrid and Barcelona reshuffling their squads, Spanish football fans can expect a dramatic offseason.
Stay updated on La Liga’s final matchday by following our final weekend preview here.
