Alternating their Champions League encounters against Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona experimented with a tricky La Liga fixture against relegation-battling Leganes.
Table-toppers, looking to cement themselves at the top of the tree, were provided with determined resistance by struggling hosts.
The Catalan giants weathered a late fright when Leganes thought they had levelled, only for the shot to be rightfully ruled out for offside.
Even with the nervous conclusion, Barcelona demonstrated their title potential by maintaining their narrow lead throughout.
Barcelona Player Ratings vs Leganes (0-1 Win)
Wojciech Szczesny: 7.5
The Polish keeper was crucial in the early stages, producing a crucial save to preserve Barça’s parity.
He had more of an evening than he was used to but was solid when required.
Alejandro Balde: 7
The left-back started well, offering width in attack and testing Leganes’s defense.
He was frustrated at times, however, by the speed of Adria Altimira before being removed injured.
Iñigo Martínez: 9 (MOTM)
A rock at the back, Martínez marshaled the defense and played some excellent long balls.
His stoppage-time interception saved the three points.
Ronald Araújo: 7
The Uruguayan did make some solid tackles but was exposed a few times at the back.
His passing was abysmal.
Jules Koundé: 7.3
Charged with holding up Dani Raba, Koundé played a solid defensive game but was not as pushy in attack as in previous matches.
Eric García: 6.9
Replacing Frenkie de Jong, García was not able to make up for the Dutchman’s dominance in midfield. He ventured deep into the second half but failed to impress.
Pedri: 8
The midfield maestro dominated quietly, distributing play well and offering defensive support. His influence increased after De Jong came on.
Fermín López: 8.3
A nagging threat in the box, Fermín failed on a series of opportunities. He ran hard, but he didn’t have the finish.
Lamine Yamal: 8
The young player was energetic on the wing, even if his last ball was wayward in the first half. He was brought on and was always dangerous.
Raphinha: 8
Though not always in scoring areas, Raphinha was instrumental in build-up play. His threatening cross prodded the decisive own goal.
Robert Lewandowski: 7.5
The Pole worked hard but was given little service in his hunt for his 100th Barça goal. He was on the scene when the winning goal was scored but could not make it count himself.
Frenkie de Jong: 8
His halftime introduction completely changed Barça’s midfield game, with more movement and control. The offense improved the moment he came into the field.
Gerrard Martin 8.2
Gerard Martín replaced the injured Balde at half-time and starred, adding width to attacks and tight-marking defensively.
The young left-back’s two-way play gave Barcelona precious balance down the left side of the pitch for the entire game.
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