Barcelona Dominate 4-0 in Emotional Return to Camp Nou: Player Ratings Highlight Standouts
Barcelona made a triumphant return to their renovated Camp Nou with a commanding 4–0 win over Athletic Club, and according to Sports Illustrated, several players delivered standout performances in what was a truly special occasion.
Key Performances
Robert Lewandowski: The veteran striker, wearing the captain’s armband for the first time in his Barça career, opened the scoring with a “vintage”-style finish. He was lively, involved in the press, and served as a focal point in attack, earning an 8.1/10 rating.
Ferran Torres: A real menace all game, he scored two goals and linked well with Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal. Torres was awarded a high mark of 9.1/10 from SI.
Lamine Yamal: The young playmaker was electric, completing eight dribbles and providing a stunning assist. SI gave him 9.1/10, making him one of the top-rated players.
Fermín López: His tireless energy drove many of Barça’s attack surges, and he also got on the scoresheet. He earned 8.2/10.
On the back line, Pau Cubarsí (center back) was calm and composed, earning 7.6/10, while Gerard Martín, making his first start at centre back, impressed with a 7.4/10 for his poise and defensive awareness. SI also pointed out Jules Koundé (7.6/10) for his defensive discipline and chemistry with Yamal.
In midfield, Eric García (6.9/10) effectively filled in for the absent Frenkie de Jong, anchoring play from deep. Meanwhile, Dani Olmo (7.3/10) struggled with some wayward passes, though he contributed to the buildup when needed.
Tactical Notes & Match Flow
Manager Hansi Flick made a bold move by starting Gerard Martín in central defense, which paid off. This allowed García to step into midfield, offering balance despite the absence of key players like Gavi, Pedri, and de Jong.
Barça came out of the gates aggressively. Lewandowski’s early goal set the tone. Then, just before halftime, Yamal’s skilful pass found Torres, who made no mistake.
Early in the second half, García and López combined for a slick one-two, and López buried a fierce shot to make it 3–0.
Athletic’s frustration boiled over mid-game. Oihan Sancet received a red card after reckless play on López, reducing the visitors to ten men.
In the final minutes, Yamal again made a decisive pass, teeing up Torres to complete his brace and wrap up the emphatic win.
Context & Significance
This match marked Barcelona’s first game at Camp Nou in 909 days, following a long renovation.
Head coach Hansi Flick called it “a perfect day,” emphasizing the emotional weight of returning home and the flawless execution by his team.
The stadium is still not fully finished; parts of the upper tiers and the roof are yet to be completed.
With the victory, Barça also temporarily edged to the top of La Liga, matching Real Madrid on points.