Young Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez scored both goals in a 2-0 victory over already-relegated Almeria on Thursday in La Liga, marking his 10th goal of the season in his breakout campaign. The 21-year-old's performance was crucial in a match where Barcelona struggled but ultimately secured the win.

Ahead of the game, reports indicated that Barcelona president Joan Laporta did not travel to Almeria due to dissatisfaction with coach Xavi Hernandez's comments about the club's financial situation compared to newly crowned champions Real Madrid. Xavi defended his statements, emphasizing the challenges the club faces but also the ambition and hard work being put in to improve the situation.

Barcelona's season has been challenging, with Xavi initially planning to leave in January before changing his mind in April following a strong run despite being knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals. Real Madrid clinched the La Liga title convincingly, leaving Barcelona in a trophyless season but with a strong chance of securing second place, currently ahead of Girona by four points.

In the match, Lopez opened the scoring in the 14th minute, heading in a cross from Hector Fort. Despite opportunities for Almeria, including a missed chance by Leo Baptistao and a shot against the upright by Adri Embarba, Barcelona held on. Lopez sealed the win with a well-executed goal from a Sergi Roberto cut-back in the 67th minute.

Lopez expressed his satisfaction with his contribution and the team's victory, emphasizing their aim to secure second place in the league.

In other La Liga action, Real Betis and Las Palmas drew 2-2, with both teams missing opportunities to secure all three points. Real Sociedad moved into sixth place with a 1-0 win over Valencia, setting up a crucial clash against Betis in Seville on Sunday for Europa League qualification.

Key highlights and statistics from the weekend's matches include:

- Lopez's brace securing Barcelona's win.
- Betis and Las Palmas drawing 2-2, leaving both teams in precarious positions regarding their season objectives.
- Real Sociedad's leap to sixth place after defeating Valencia.
- The crucial upcoming match between Real Sociedad and Betis for a spot in the Europa League.