Barcelona emphatically rebounded from their weekend setback to thrash Young Boys 5-0 in Tuesday night’s Champions League clash at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. Robert Lewandowski’s brace led the charge as Hansi Flick’s men secured their first European win of the campaign in style.
Following a dismal 4-2 defeat to Osasuna in La Liga, Barcelona entered the match with a point to prove. The Catalan giants wasted no time in asserting their dominance, unleashing a relentless offensive that left their Swiss opponents reeling.
We needed this performance,” said manager Hansi Flick in the post-match press conference. “The team showed great character and quality tonight. It’s the perfect response to our weekend disappointment.”
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski stole the headlines with a clinical double, becoming only the second player in Champions League history to score 50 goals after turning 30, joining the illustrious company of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 35-year-old veteran opened the scoring in the 8th minute, ghosting in at the far post to convert Raphinha’s cross. He later added a second, tapping in from close range after Inigo Martinez’s diving header across goal.
It’s a special feeling to reach this milestone,” Lewandowski remarked after the game. “But more importantly, the team played incredibly well tonight. This is the Barcelona we want to be.”
While Lewandowski grabbed the goals, it was Raphinha who orchestrated much of Barcelona’s attacking play. The Brazilian winger not only assisted the opener but also found the net himself, finishing smartly after Pedri’s initial shot was blocked.
Even with the game well won at 5-0, Raphinha’s intensity never wavered. His relentless pressing and creativity highlighted why he’s fast becoming one of Barcelona’s most indispensable players.
Barcelona’s performance showcased a perfect blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned experience. Seventeen-year-old Pau Cubarsi impressed at the back, playing with the composure of a veteran, while Lamine Yamal’s dazzling dribbling left Young Boys defenders resorting to fouls to halt his progress.
Meanwhile, the experienced heads of Inigo Martinez and Pedri controlled the game’s tempo. Martinez powered home a header from Pedri’s precise free-kick for Barcelona’s third, before turning provider for Lewandowski’s second.
Manager Hansi Flick’s team selection and in-game management deserves significant credit. The German tactician struck the right balance between attack and defense, allowing Barcelona to dominate possession while remaining solid at the back.
As the game progressed, Flick’s substitutions maintained the team’s momentum. The introduction of Frenkie de Jong, making his first appearance of the season after injury, helped Barcelona see out the game comfortably.
This comprehensive victory serves as more than just three points for Barcelona. It’s a statement of intent and a timely confidence boost as they navigate a challenging period in both domestic and European competitions.
“This performance sets the standard for what we can achieve,” Flick emphasized. “Now it’s about maintaining this level of play consistently.”
Barcelona’s next challenge comes in La Liga, where they face Deportivo Alaves on October 6th. The Blaugrana faithful will be hoping this Champions League masterclass marks the beginning of a sustained run of form.
In a night where everything clicked for Barcelona, the 5-0 victory over Young Boys not only secures their first Champions League win of the season but also reinstates their credentials as European heavyweights. Led by the evergreen Lewandowski and inspired by the flair of Raphinha and Pedri, this performance will long be remembered as the night Barcelona rediscovered their swagger on the continental stage.
