Barcelona maintained their perfect start to the La Liga season with a resilient 2-1 victory over Athletic Club on Saturday. Lamine Yamal’s deflected strike and Robert Lewandowski’s clinical finish secured the win, propelling Barça to the top of the table alongside Celta Vigo.
The match began with Barcelona in control, and they took the lead in the 24th minute when 17-year-old Yamal unleashed a curling shot that deflected off a defender and into the net. Athletic responded just before halftime when Oihan Sancet converted a penalty, awarded after Pau Cubarsi fouled Alex Berenguer.
Despite Athletic’s counterattacks, Barcelona dominated possession in the second half. Marc-André ter Stegen made several crucial saves to keep the score level. The decisive moment came in the 75th minute when Lewandowski pounced on a rebound after Pedri’s cross was parried by Athletic’s goalkeeper. The Polish striker’s first-time shot sealed the victory.
Raphinha was instrumental throughout, creating chances and driving Barcelona forward, while Lewandowski’s persistence paid off after narrowly missing earlier opportunities. Despite missing key players like Gavi and Frenkie De Jong, Barça’s determination under new manager Hansi Flick is evident, as they secure back-to-back wins to start the season.
Barcelona’s early form sets a positive tone as they prepare for tougher challenges, including the upcoming Clasico in October.
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