September 15, (THEWILL) — Barcelona delivered a commanding 6-0 victory over Valencia in their opening home fixture of the season at the Estadi Johan Cruyff on Sunday evening.
Manager Hansi Flick fielded an altered starting XI due to injuries and disciplinary action against Raphinha, who was benched for arriving late to training.
The makeshift lineup featured Ferran Torres alongside newcomers Marcus Rashford and Roony Bardghji in attack.
The Catalans dominated proceedings from the outset, with their fluid attacking play troubling Valencia’s defence throughout the opening period. Fermín López opened the scoring after 29 minutes, converting from close range following an excellent through ball from Pau Cubarsí that Torres flicked into his path. Despite continued pressure, Barcelona could not extend its advantage before the interval.
The second half brought an avalanche of goals for the home side.
Rashford provided his first assist in Barcelona colours, delivering a precise cross for substitute Raphinha to convert at the far post.
López doubled his tally two minutes later with a powerful long-range effort that beat goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala.
Raphinha added his second goal in the 66th minute with a well-struck half-volley following another Valencia defensive error.
Dani Olmo set up Robert Lewandowski for Barcelona’s fifth goal, before the Polish striker completed his brace late in the match.
The striker’s second goal came courtesy of an assist from Marc Bernal, who made his emotional return to action over a year after suffering an ACL injury.
The young midfielder’s introduction drew the loudest cheers of the evening from the home support.
Barcelona will take considerable confidence from this comprehensive performance into their UEFA Champions League campaign opener against Newcastle United on Thursday night.
The victory was a demonstration of Barca’s squad’s depth and attacking quality despite the enforced changes to the starting formation.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
