By Frank Ulom
NOU CAMP (CONVERSEER) – Barcelona celebrated their long-awaited return to the Camp Nou with a dominant 4–0 victory over Athletic Club on Sunday, marking their first match at the historic stadium in nearly three years.
A brace from Ferran Torres and goals from Robert Lewandowski and Fermin López sealed a memorable night for Hansi Flick’s side, who delivered a vibrant attacking performance.
Flick, missing key midfielders Gavi, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, fielded an adventurous line-up designed to take the game to the visitors from the first whistle. The approach paid off immediately as Barcelona created several early chances. The breakthrough came when Lewandowski struck a powerful left-footed effort that slipped under goalkeeper Unai Simón at the near post, giving La Blaugrana their first goal in the upgraded stadium.
Athletic Club struggled to find rhythm but enjoyed a short spell of momentum late in the first half. Their best opportunity fell to Nico Williams, whose effort brushed the side netting amid jeers from the home crowd.
Barcelona capitalised moments before the interval. Lamine Yamal produced a stunning trivela pass to release Torres behind the Athletic defence. His low finish again evaded Simón, who endured a difficult evening as the hosts doubled their advantage.
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López extended the lead early in the second half. A high press from Barcelona forced a turnover, allowing Eric García—operating in an improvised midfield role—to slide a precise pass to López, who calmly finished past the advancing Simón.
Athletic’s challenge worsened when Oihan Sanchet received a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on López, leaving the visitors to see out a punishing final half-hour with ten men.
Barcelona continued to push for more goals, and Torres secured his brace in stoppage time. Yamal, instrumental throughout, dribbled past several defenders before threading an accurate pass into Torres’ path. The winger finished with a composed curling shot to complete a triumphant evening at the Camp Nou.
The win marks a strong statement from Flick’s side as they look to build momentum in their refurbished home.
