Robert Lewandowski’s clinical finish in the 75th minute secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory for Barcelona over Athletic Bilbao in La Liga on Saturday. The Polish striker, despite missing several earlier chances, remained composed to slot home the winner and earn Barcelona their second consecutive league win under new coach Hansi Flick.
Barcelona took the lead in the first half through a deflected effort from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. However, Athletic Bilbao equalized from the penalty spot before halftime, with Oihan Sancet converting after Pau Cubarsi’s clumsy foul on Alejandro Berenguer.
Lewandowski had a frustrating first half, hitting the woodwork twice. But he made amends in the second half, firing home from close range after Raphinha’s cross was parried into his path.
Barcelona dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the match. Pedri, making his first start after injury, impressed in midfield alongside Yamal. Raphinha also played a key role, providing the assist for Lewandowski’s winner.
Athletic Bilbao, despite their spirited performance, were unable to find an equalizer. They remain with just one point from their first two matches.
Flick praised Lewandowski’s resilience and Barcelona’s overall performance. “Especially in the first half, he could have scored one or two goals… but in the end, this is a goal getter, a striker, who scores goals,” Flick said. “The second goal was the winner, three points, perfect.”
Despite the absence of new signing Dani Olmo due to Barcelona’s financial difficulties, Flick remains optimistic about his team’s prospects. “These are things we have to accept because we cannot change it,” he said. “We knew when we signed for Barca (the financial situation) is not easy, (so I) don’t think about that. Today we wanted three points and we got it.”
