Champions Barcelona stunned by Valencia in final game of LaLiga season

Despite securing their top division status just six days ago, Valencia remarkably faced the champions with hopes of clinching a spot in the UEFA Conference League next season through a victory.

Motivated by this prospect, the energetic Mestalla audience witnessed their team start strongly, crafting several promising opportunities within the first 20 minutes.

Diego Lopez missed a close range chance by firing over the bar, and later, Gavi stopped Luis Rioja's attempt. Lopez then set up Hugo Duro, but Valencia’s forward narrowly directed his header over.

Sensing a chance to slip into European competition, Carlos Corberan’s squad pressed on, forcing Wojciech Szczesny to save Filip Ugrinic’s driven strike.

Barcelona were sluggish in comparison yet nearly took the lead when Alejandro Balde hit the side netting after a slick exchange with Dani Olmo.

Robert Lewandowski then connected with Marcus Rashford’s corner, his header hitting the post in a gripping first half conclusion.

The match shifted early in the second half following Lopez’s injury withdrawal, allowing Lewandowski to mark his final game for Barcelona with the opening goal.

Pepelu’s defensive header fell to Ferran Torres, whose cross was deftly finished by Lewandowski at the back post.

Valencia leveled swiftly, thanks to Javi Guerra’s skillful run and left foot finish past Szczesny, marking his third goal in two matches.

Rioja then flipped the game, cutting inside to unleash a precise shot that sent Mestalla into chaos.

Valencia appeared set for another when Marc Bernal fouled Jesus Vazquez, initially awarded as a penalty but adjusted to a free kick after VAR review.

Andreas Christensen nearly equalized late, but Stole Dimitrievski thwarted his effort.

Guido Rodriguez sealed the win in stoppage time, slotting a low shot past Szczesny to cap a memorable triumph.

This victory extended Valencia’s unbeaten run to four games, their best streak since December, securing a commendable ninth place finish.

Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, ended their successful season with a sixth league loss, still finishing eight points ahead of Real Madrid.