Robert Lewandoski got a brace as Barcelona came from behind to win against Alaves, after lagging in the first half.
The win secured all three points and kept Barca in third place after losing their last two matches in all competitions.
Barca are in third place on 30 points, two behind Real Madrid in second and four off surprise leaders Girona.
Alaves’ 19-year-old striker Samu Omorodion opened the scoresheet after 18 seconds with a close-range strike following a quick counter-attack.
In a half-empty Barcelona Olympic Stadium, Barca struggled with the ball, losing possession and giving terrible passes, along with chances for their opponents to score.
But Alaves could not convert any of the chances, including a close-range effort from Samu Omorodion, which he fired well over from point-blank range.
Kounde gifted another ball to Andoni Gorosabel, who also missed a chance and Barcelona manager, Xavi changed his position to right full-back.
In the second half, Lewandowski equalized for the host with a powerful header from Kounde’s cross in the 52nd minute.
In the 77th minute Alaves defender Abdelkabir Abqar fouled Raphinha inside the box and Lewandowski converted the penalty to secure the points.
“We need to be conscious about our moment and be self-critical, we are not playing good football lately and need to improve mightily going forward,” Xavi told Movistar Plus.
“The international break has arrived in good time and will do good for us, so we can reflect and work hard to correct our mistakes. I’m optimistic and I think we have enough talent and grit to come back much better in two weeks.”
