Barcelona’s Late Heroics Seal 3–2 Win Over Levante

On 23 August 2025, Barcelona amazed fans with a dramatic 3–2 comeback victory over Levante in La Liga’s second round of the 2025/2026 season. Despite trailing 2–0 at halftime, Barça rallied with spectacular goals from Pedri and Ferran Torres, before a stoppage-time own goal sealed a stunning turnaround. This Levante vs Barcelona match report captures one of the season’s most remarkable turnarounds.

Match Report

Goals & Scoring Timeline

• 15′ – Ivan Romero gives Levante the lead with a deft finish inside the box.
• 45′+ – José Luis Morales doubles the advantage with a penalty, awarded after VAR ruled a handball by Alejandro Balde.
• 49′ – Pedri ignites Barça's comeback with a spectacular strike into the top corner.
• 52′ – Ferran Torres levels with an exquisite volley.
• 90′+1′ – Unai Elgezabal scores an own goal from Lamine Yamal’s cross, completing the miraculous comeback.

Key Moments & Turning Points

Levante’s dominant first half left Barcelona reeling. Half-time changes sparked a dramatic shift. Pedri’s strike recalibrated the momentum, and just minutes later Ferran Torres drew Barça level. Persistent pressure in stoppage time finally broke Levante’s resistance via an unfortunate own goal, sealing a memorable comeback.

Standout Player Performances

• Pedri: A moment of brilliance—his first strikes catalyzed the comeback.
• Ferran Torres: Delivered exactly when it mattered with a poised volley.
• Lamine Yamal: His influence culminated in the pivotal cross that led to the winning goal.
• Unai Elgezabal: A rock in Levante’s defense until the fateful stoppage-time moment.

Tactical Breakdown

Barcelona transformed their first-half lethargy into a high-tempo, incisive second half, with substitutions prompting renewed energy. Levante’s initial structured setup fragmented under relentless pressure and clever wing play. Barça’s shifts—melding creative flair with tactical urgency—made the difference.

Post-Match Manager Reactions

Hansi Flick (Barcelona Manager)

Flick praised his team’s spirit:

“I am proud of my team. We tried to come back and get three points. We believed until the end. This match will help us improve,” рrompting celebration.
BILD

Ferran Torres (Barcelona Forward)

“It was tough, a physical game. But we showed the character we've built since last year. After halftime, we played better. We knew we had to turn it around.”
BILD

Fan Reactions & Atmosphere

Levante supporters rejoiced confidently at the break, but that euphoria was swallowed by mounting tension as Barcelona relentlessly attacked. The Catalan travelling contingent celebrated ecstatically in stoppage time. Social media buzzed with admiration—“another one for the history books,” read countless posts.

What This Means for the Season

• Barcelona: This comeback reinforces their resilience and depth—critical traits in a title defense. It signals their intent to fight through adversity.
• Levante: Despite defeat, their lively start suggests potential as a resilient opponent. However, defensive dodges at critical moments cost them dearly.