Robert Lewandowski scored twice to lead Barcelona to a 2-1 victory over Valencia in their La Liga opener on Saturday. Under the management of Hansi Flick, Barcelona achieved a hard-fought win, coming from behind at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium.
Valencia took the lead in the 44th minute when Hugo Duro scored with a header. However, Lewandowski equalized just before halftime, finishing from close range after Lamine Yamal redirected Alejandro Balde’s cross. The Polish striker then put Barcelona ahead early in the second half with a penalty kick after Raphinha was fouled in the box.
Despite missing key players like Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, and Ronald Araujo, Flick included three 17-year-olds in the starting lineup, which featured Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, and debutant Marc Bernal. Flick expressed satisfaction with his team’s second-half performance, suggesting they showed significant improvement compared to the first half.
Valencia had opportunities to extend their lead, but Duro’s effort was cleared off the line by Cubarsi, and a weak shot from Ferran Torres failed to capitalize on a breakaway chance for Barcelona. Lewandowski nearly completed a hat-trick in stoppage time but shot over the bar.
Flick complimented young talents like Yamal, who received applause from Valencia supporters after his impressive performances with the Spanish national team during Euro 2024. Barcelona will next face Athletic Bilbao in their upcoming league match.