Tue Sep 24 20:40:49 UTC 2024: ## Barcelona Extends Perfect Start, but Loses Ter Stegen to Serious Injury

**Madrid, Spain (AP)** – Barcelona continued its dominant start to the Spanish league season with a resounding 5-1 victory over Villarreal on Sunday, but suffered a major blow with the loss of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen to a serious knee injury.

Ter Stegen, who left the match on a stretcher just before halftime, is feared to have suffered a torn ligament. Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed that further tests will be conducted to determine the extent of the injury.

Despite the setback, Barcelona’s offense continued to impress. Robert Lewandowski scored two first-half goals, while Raphinha added a brace after the interval. Pablo Torre also found the back of the net for the Catalan club, as Barcelona extended its lead at the top of the table to four points over Real Madrid.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, will face Deportivo Alavés at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Tuesday. Fans can watch the match via a subscription to ESPN+ or a free trial to fuboTV.

Elsewhere in La Liga, Atletico Madrid missed a chance to keep pace with Barcelona after a 1-1 draw with city rivals Rayo Vallecano. Getafe and Leganes also drew 1-1, while Athletic Bilbao secured a 3-1 victory over Celta Vigo.

The loss of ter Stegen is a significant blow for Barcelona, who are already without several key players due to injuries.

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