Barcelona celebrated their return to the Spotify Camp Nou with a commanding win, marking their second consecutive league victory. After spending 909 days away from their iconic stadium, the team came home to a vibrant atmosphere that set the tone for the afternoon.
From the opening whistle, the players were energized by the crowd’s enthusiasm. That intensity paid off almost immediately when Robert Lewandowski scored inside the first four minutes. The striker found space near the near post and fired a precise effort that beat Unai Simón, handing Barcelona the perfect start to their homecoming.
As the first half came to a close, the hosts added a second goal to strengthen their advantage. Once again, Simón was unable to keep the ball out, allowing Ferran Torres’s attempt to slip underneath him deep into stoppage time. The goal sent Barcelona into the break firmly in control.
Barcelona tighten their grip after the interval
The momentum continued after halftime. Only a few minutes into the second half, Fermin López made it 3–0 after being played through by Eric Garcia. The move sliced through Athletic’s defense, giving Fermin the opening he needed to finish confidently and effectively settle the contest.
Athletic’s situation worsened shortly afterward when Oihan Sancet was dismissed. He received a red card for a reckless swing at Fermin, and the decision was confirmed following a VAR review. With a man advantage and a sizeable lead, Barcelona were able to dictate the remainder of the match comfortably.
The state of the game allowed Hansi Flick to rotate his squad and distribute valuable minutes to several players. Dro Fernandez and Marc Bernal were introduced, as well as Raphinha, who made his return to action. Their involvement helped maintain the team’s rhythm while preserving the energy of key starters.
Late flourish secures top spot
Barcelona were not finished. In the final moments of the match, the Catalans added a fourth goal to complete their afternoon’s work. Ferran Torres struck again in the 90th minute, this time converting another delivery from Lamine Yamal, who notched his second assist of the match.
The victory lifts Barcelona back to the top of the La Liga table thanks to their superior goal difference over Real Madrid. Although Madrid can reclaim the lead if they avoid defeat at Elche on Sunday, Barcelona will feel satisfied with a performance that combined efficiency, control, and flair.
Returning home after such a long absence, they delivered precisely the kind of display that supporters had been hoping for—confident, composed, and ultimately decisive.
