Lamine Yamals stunning strike seals Barcas narrow win against Bilbao while Atletico squeeze past Real Sociedad

Young sensation Lamine Yamal scored a magnificent goal to secure a 1-0 victory for Barcelona against Athletic Bilbao in Saturdays La Liga clash.

The title holders extended their advantage to four points ahead of runners-up Real Madrid, who had briefly narrowed the deficit with a win over Celta Vigo the previous day.

Atletico Madrid strengthened their hold on third position with a thrilling 3-2 triumph against Real Sociedad.

The 18-year-old Yamal bent the ball into the upper corner after 68 minutes, deciding the match at Athletic Bilbaos San Mames ground.

"We are witnessing Lamine Yamals talent already, he slots it perfectly into the top corner leaving the goalkeeper helpless," Barcelona midfielder Pedri commented to Movistar.

"He is incredibly young and will improve even more.

"He must avoid complacency, continue pushing forward, stay dedicated, and relish playing on the field, as he contributes immensely to us."

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick shuffled his lineup ahead of Tuesdays Champions League last-16 encounter with Newcastle.

Consequently, his squad delivered a fragmented performance in the opening half, generating few chances and appearing distant from their usual fluid style.

"The whole team battled hard, defended collectively, and secured another shutout, which is vital," Flick remarked to the press, highlighting the upsides.

"One fewer match and three additional points, that is an ideal outcome."

Up top, Barcelonas Ferran Torres struggled without his sharpness, and Athletic Bilbao held a slight edge in opportunities during a lacklustre first period.

Joao Cancelo accidentally struck his own posts upright soon after kick-off, and Selton Sanchez broke clear but Barcelona custodian Joan Garcia slid in adeptly to strip the ball away.

Inaki Williams saw a shot disallowed for offside, while Garcia denied Oihan Sancet shortly into the second half, amid limited clear-cut moments as the pair of Copa del Rey semi-final exit teams grappled without breakthrough.

Barcelonas young prodigy Yamal endured a subdued start but shook off Athletic defender Adama Boiros marking to unlock the scoring.

Replacement Pedri located Yamal, and with Boiro losing footing, the prodigy curled the shot into the top corner via the post, marking his 19th goal this season in all tournaments.

"I believe today was not his finest outing, yet his significance is evident," Flick noted.

"He possesses the ability to sway matches, and with room to operate, he finds the net. It is excellent to see him at this calibre where he can single-handedly determine the result."

Final preparation

Nicolas Gonzalez claimed a brace to help Diego Simeoness Atletico defeat Real Sociedad, opening up a three-point buffer over fourth-placed Villarreal, set to face Elche on Sunday.

This marked just the second loss for Real Sociedad boss Pellegrino Matarazzo across his 14 games in charge, with the Basque outfit climbing to eighth under the US coachs guidance.

Each team advanced to the Copa del Rey final earlier this week, making this encounter a preview of their April title decider in Seville.

"It had been some time since my last goal, so it feels great to net one here in front of these supporters," Gonzalez shared with Movistar.

"In each fixture, we demonstrate our ambitions and potential."

Alexander Sorloth kept up his strong run by putting Atletico in front, though Carlos Soler levelled for La Real before the break.

Atletico replacement Antoine Griezmann assisted Gonzalezs opener with a clever heel flick, restoring the home sides advantage.

Real Sociedad responded swiftly, as Mikel Oyarzabal rifled home from distance.

Gonzalez sealed victory for Simeoness men, rising to head in Matteo Ruggieris inswinging delivery.

"I am delighted for Nico, he picked up an injury in December and has been rebuilding his rhythm since," Simeone stated.

"I trust he maintains this momentum, as we require his full contribution."

Argentinian Gonzalez previously worked under Matarazzo at Stuttgart, and the duo exchanged smiles post-match, knowing they will clash anew in April for silverware.

"Defeat stings, and our display fell short of expectations," Matarazzo admitted.

"With six weeks until the final and potential squad changes, the dynamics will shift."