WATCH: Robert Lewandowski fires Barcelona ahead against Elche

Barcelona have shaken off any chance of possible early nerves in their La Liga clash with Elche.

Xavi opted for sweeping changes to his starting XI, following the international break, up against the basement side in the Spanish top flight, at the Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero.

However, despite the reshuffles, Barcelona look well placed to secure the win they need to extend their title advantage to 15 points overnight.

Despite struggling to create clear cut chances in the opening stages, Barcelona ruthlessly buried their first real opportunity of the contest, as Robert Lewandowski converted a 16th league goal of his debut campaign in Spain.

Lewandowski with the bounce shot to give Barcelona the lead 🔥 pic.twitter.com/tq2vx6zoId

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 1, 2023

Robert Lewandowski 🎯

The Barça striker scores the opener with his sixteenth goal of the season ✨🇵🇱#LaLigaSantander pic.twitter.com/Rc2AIkIafl

— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) April 1, 2023

Ronald Araujo did well to keep a free kick alive inside the box and Lewandowski sprang into life to thump home an improvised finish.

🎥 FC Barcelona Goal

⚽️ Lewandowski

pic.twitter.com/kV4lvJEguZ

— Barça Spaces (@BarcaSpaces) April 1, 2023

Lewandowski anota y el Barcelona ya le gana al último lugar de la tabla 🔴🔵. pic.twitter.com/IWBVyF3Zav

— ESPN Deportes (@ESPNDeportes) April 1, 2023

Barcelona will be confident of easing on to victory, with second place Real Madrid not in action until tomorrow, at home to Real Valladolid.

Images via Getty Images