Osasuna handed La Liga leaders Barcelona their first defeat of the season with a stunning 4-2 win on Saturday, halting Barça’s perfect run of seven consecutive victories. Osasuna’s Ante Budimir scored twice, complemented by a Bryan Zaragoza goal, while Abel Bretones added a spectacular fourth to seal the victory. Barcelona, who heavily rotated their lineup, saw goals from Pau Victor and Lamine Yamal, but it wasn’t enough to avoid the defeat.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick accepted responsibility for the loss, explaining that squad rotation was necessary with a busy schedule ahead, including a Champions League clash against Young Boys. Flick rested key players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, fielding a young and inexperienced defense, which struggled against a fierce Osasuna attack.
Osasuna’s Zaragoza, on loan from Bayern Munich, played a pivotal role, assisting Budimir’s first goal with a perfect cross before scoring the second himself. Budimir’s penalty and Bretones’ stunning long-range effort secured Osasuna’s victory, despite Barcelona’s late attempt at a comeback. This defeat cost Barcelona the chance to match their best-ever La Liga start of eight consecutive wins and leaves Real Madrid just four points behind.
Barcelona will now turn their focus to their derby clash with Atletico Madrid on Sunday, hoping to rebound from this unexpected setback.
