AfriPulse
Barcelona returned from the international break in style with a 6-0 demolition of Valencia in La Liga on Sunday, delivering a statement performance under Hansi Flick at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.
Forced to continue away from the Camp Nou due to ongoing renovation delays, the Catalan giants showed no signs of discomfort as they overwhelmed Los Che with a dominant second-half display.
Lopez sets the tone
Fermin Lopez gave Barça the perfect start, finding the net in the opening period to settle any early nerves.
Fermin Lopez scored double for the hosts Barcelona – Credit: Football Espana
The midfielder’s energy in attack proved crucial, with Flick’s side dictating the game throughout the first half despite Valencia holding firm for long spells.
Second-half rout
After the break, Flick’s substitutions turned the contest into a rout.
Raphinha doubled the lead shortly after coming on, before Lopez struck again to make it 3-0. Valencia, unable to contain the waves of pressure, collapsed further as Raphinha added his second.
Robert Lewandowski, gradually working back to full fitness after injury setbacks, entered the fray late on and showed his clinical edge with a quick-fire brace that sealed the 6-0 result.
Champions League focus next
The emphatic win lifts Barcelona’s spirits after a frustrating 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano prior to the international break and keeps the pressure on leaders Real Madrid, who have won all four of their opening matches.
Attention now shifts to Europe, with Barça set to open their Champions League campaign away at Newcastle United on September 18.
Meanwhile, club officials remain hopeful of completing their Camp Nou return in time to host Getafe on September 21, though uncertainty lingers.
Source: Gistreel | Read the Full Story…
