Barcelona stunned by Rayo Vallecano in surprise 2-1 defeat

SHOCK DEFEAT: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona is challenged by Florian Lejeune and Ivan Balliu of Rayo Vallecano. Pic: Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images

Barcelona wasted a golden opportunity to extend their lead at the top of LaLiga as they suffered a shock 2-1 defeat at Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday thanks to goals in each half from Alvaro Garcia and Fran Garcia.

With seven games to play, Barca are top of the league on 76 points, 11 ahead second-placed Real Madrid, who were also stunned 4-2 at lowly Girona on Tuesday. Rayo Vallecano are ninth on 43 points, four adrift of the European qualification spots.