On Monday, striker Robert Lewandowski converted a first - half penalty, enabling Barcelona to secure a hard - fought 1-0 victory at home against Rayo Vallecano. This win propelled Barcelona to the summit of the LaLiga standings.

Over the weekend, both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid dropped points. Barcelona capitalized on this opportunity, surging from third place to the top. Currently, Barcelona and Real Madrid are tied on 51 points, yet Barcelona leads based on goal difference.

Atletico Madrid trails both Barcelona and Real Madrid by a single point. As for Rayo Vallecano, they occupy the sixth position in the standings with 35 points.

Lewandowski netted the winner with a tidy finish from the spot in the 28th minute after Pathe Ciss fouled Inigo Martinez inside the box.

Despite Barca dominating possession, Rayo looked the more dangerous of the two sides and they should have scored the equaliser when Jorge de Frutos missed a header from close-range in added time.