Rodri Debuts as Raphinha and Fermin Lopez Lead Barcelona to 2-0 Win Over Athletic Club

Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory against Athletic Club at Camp Nou, maintaining their perfect start in La Liga. The match was notable for the debut of summer signing Rodri, who finally appeared for the Catalan side after recovering from minor back surgery.

Raphinha and Fermin Lopez Score

Under Hansi Flick's guidance, Barcelona made it two wins in two matches. A youthful lineup featured four teenagers, yet it was the experienced Raphinha who opened the scoring in the 37th minute. He received a precise pass from Pedri, bypassed goalkeeper Unai Simon, and scored his third goal of the season.

Barcelona dominated the game, forcing Simon into eight saves. Lamine Yamal nearly added a goal, hitting the crossbar, while Anthony Gordon narrowly missed in his first start for the club. Meanwhile, Athletic Club failed to register any shots on target throughout the entire match.

The second goal arrived eight minutes before the final whistle when Fermin Lopez capitalized on a poor clearance by Aymeric Laporte after a low cross from Karim Adeyemi, tapping the ball in from close range.

Rodri's Entry Sparks Camp Nou

Flick’s strategy mixed youth with new signings effectively. Teenagers Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Bernal, and Xavi Espart started, showing faith in La Masia’s newest talents.

The crowd warmly welcomed Rodri as he entered the game in the 63rd minute alongside Dani Olmo, replacing Raphinha and Bernal. Rodri, transferred from Manchester City for €76.5 million (£65m), missed the season opener due to recovery but now steps into the midfield for the reigning champions.

Camp Nou Winning Streak Continues

This win extended Barcelona’s home league winning streak to 20 matches, their longest since a 25-game run between 2012 and 2014. Athletic Club remains unable to break their drought in Catalonia, now goalless in 16 visits to Camp Nou. Their attack lacked impact, with only a brief effort from Nico Williams in the first half.

Looking Ahead

Barcelona aims to maintain this momentum as they defend their La Liga title. Two wins, seven goals scored, and clean sheets signal a strong start under Flick. Rodri’s return boosts squad depth amid a demanding schedule. Athletic Club faces a challenge to improve offensively after their lackluster performance.

• Upcoming Matches:
• Celta Vigo vs Athletic Bilbao: 30 Aug 2026, 21:30
• Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano: 31 Aug 2026, 21:30