Key Takeaways
- Lamine Yamal scored the only goal from a 40th-minute penalty but pulled up hurt straight after.
- Barcelona now lead La Liga by nine points with six matches left.
- Spain boss and fans fear the 18-year-old could miss the World Cup if the hamstring strain is serious.
Barcelona edged Celta Vigo 1-0 on Wednesday night, yet the victory came at a price. Lamine Yamal fired home from the spot in the 40th minute after the winger himself had been tripped by Yoel Lago. Moments later he sank to the turf, clutching the back of his left thigh, and had to be helped down the tunnel.
Coach Hansi Flick admitted the club must wait for scan results. “He felt something and would not leave the pitch without cause,” Flick said. “We hope the damage is small.”
Roony Bardghji replaced the teenager, whose 16 league goals and 11 assists have driven Barça’s title charge. The win leaves the champions six victories away from retaining the trophy, but Yamal’s fitness is now a cloud before next month’s Clásico against Real Madrid and the fast-approaching World Cup.
Midfielder Pedri offered support: “He is young and strong; let’s pray the lay-off is short.”