Las Palmas Delivers a Memorable Evening at Montjuïc with a Historic Victory (1-2)
This Saturday marked a historic day at Montjuïc as UD Las Palmas achieved their third-ever away win against FC Barcelona. The 1-2 victory echoes their triumphs from the 1968-69 and 1971-72 seasons, though those were secured at the Nou Camp.
The names of Sandro and Fabio Silva will go down in history as the scorers on this extraordinary evening. The Gran Canarian side executed their game plan to near perfection, as requested by their coach, to overcome the league leaders.
Diego Martínez made several changes to Las Palmas' starting lineup: Moleiro returned, Essugo was replaced by Javi Muñoz, and Mika Mármol was positioned at left-back. The team showed no cracks in their strategy and style, standing firm against the competition’s top-ranked side. Instead, they took the initiative.
The first highlight of the evening came courtesy of a brilliant solo run by Sandro Ramírez, from his own half to Barcelona’s penalty area. His final pass narrowly missed Javi Muñoz, who was impeded by a defender in front of goal. A minute later, Jasper Cillessen made a crucial save against a shot from Fermín, marking the first real threat from the home team. The intensity of both sides set the tone for an exciting 15th-round clash.
Las Palmas’ second opportunity came early as well, in the 10th minute. A pass from Javi Muñoz found Fabio Silva and Scott McKenna close to goal, but neither could capitalize.
Diego Martínez’s players worked tirelessly to prevent the game from tilting in the league leader's favor. Defensive solidarity and quick transitions allowed Las Palmas to maintain suspense in a match that lacked consistent chances in either box.
While Barcelona had periods of partial dominance, Las Palmas remained a threat, particularly on the counter. In the 35th minute, Javi Muñoz came close to scoring with a low shot that grazed the post after a fast break.
The goalless first half ended with Barcelona finding their rhythm late. Pedri tested Cillessen with a shot from the edge of the box, forcing an impressive save. In stoppage time, Raphinha hit the crossbar with a dangerous strike, leaving the Dutch goalkeeper momentarily shaken.
Barcelona tried to take control in the second half, with coach Flick introducing young Spanish star Lamine Yamal. However, it was Las Palmas that broke the deadlock. In their first counterattack of the half, Kirian set up Sandro, whose precise shot beat Peña at the near post.
The Gran Canarians' lead lasted only 12 minutes, as Raphinha equalized with a powerful shot from outside the box, assisted by Pedri.
The game had more drama to offer. Las Palmas continued to exploit spaces, and Fabio Silva seized one of these moments in the 66th minute. A deep pass from Javi Muñoz found Silva, who controlled the ball superbly before delivering an impeccable finish to restore the 1-2 lead.
Las Palmas then donned their armor for the remaining minutes, enduring Barcelona’s relentless attacks. With Cillessen’s gloves, disciplined defending, and sheer grit, they held on until the referee blew the final whistle in the 98th minute. The celebration from the Gran Canarian side was euphoric, marking a night to remember.
