Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club in their La Liga opener at the Camp Nou on Thursday, with Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scoring to give Hansi Flick’s side a convincing win. Raphinha, who has now scored three goals in two league matches, opened the scoring in the 37th minute after being set up by a through ball from Pedri. Fermin Lopez doubled the lead in the 82nd minute after capitalizing on a defensive error by Aymeric Laporte.

Early Pressure and Tactical Adjustments

Barcelona came out with strong intent, and Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon was called into action early — In the 18th minute, Simon made a one-handed save to deny Lamine Yamal’s curling shot from the edge of the box. Six minutes later, Raphinha nearly scored with a header off a cross from Xavi Espart, but his effort struck the post.

Despite the changes, the team’s attacking intent remained evident, and Raphinha was core to the action. Barcelona made three changes from their 5-0 season-opening win over Elche, with newly signed Rodri starting on the bench, and Anthony Gordon, Pau Cubarsi, and Pedri came into the starting XI.

First Half Breakthrough

Barcelona took the lead in the 37th minute when Pedri delivered a precise through ball that split the Athletic defense, allowing Raphinha to round Simon and tap the ball into an empty net. The goal was a significant moment, as it gave Barcelona a key lead before the halftime break.

Simon had already made several key saves to keep Athletic in the game, and his efforts helped prevent an earlier goal, as his one-handed stop of Yamal’s effort and a later save from Raphinha’s header showcased his importance in keeping the visitors in contention.

Second Half and Late Decisive Goal

Barcelona continued to control the game in the second half but struggled to convert their chances into a second goal — Despite dominating possession, they lacked clinical finishing for much of the half. Athletic put up a strong defensive fight, with Oihan Sancet’s long-range shot striking the post in the second half, giving Barça a scare.

However, Barcelona’s persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Aymeric Laporte attempted a back-pass that was intercepted by Fermin Lopez; the midfielder quickly slotted the ball into the net, sealing a comfortable 2-0 victory for the home side.

The win marks a strong start to Barcelona’s 2025/26 La Liga campaign, with attention now turning to their next home match against Rayo Vallecano on Monday. The team has shown a tendency to score early under Flick, but Thursday’s match highlighted their ability to maintain control even when goals don’t come immediately.