Back at Camp Nou, Barca Roars: Lewandowski’s Four-Goal Triumph Sparks Title Talk

Camp Nou Returns to Life with a Dominant Win

Barcelona welcomed back the energy of Camp Nou with a 4-0 La Liga victory over Athletic Bilbao on Saturday, in a match that underscored the emotional lift of playing at the historic venue in its new era. From the opening whistle, Barça pressed high and captured control, delivering two goals before halftime and sealing the result after the break.

Robert Lewandowski, the Polish striker, spoke afterward about the day’s significance, saying that returning to Camp Nou felt special and that the team played with an attacking mindset from the first minute. He noted that playing in this stadium brings a different energy and, in his own words, a sense that Barca are stronger here than anywhere else.

Barça’s goals came in a rapid-fire sequence, with Ferrán López and Lewandowski among the scorers as the team took a two-goal lead by the end of the first half. The atmosphere intensified as the second half unfolded, and the hosts put the result beyond doubt, extending the margin with a late quartet of finishes.

The match also marked the return of goalkeeper Juan García after a two-month injury layoff, a boost for a defensive unit seeking stability ahead of a demanding run of fixtures. The comeback was timely and symbolic, as Barça looked to re-establish rhythm and confidence at home.

Coach Hansi Flick explained that several selection decisions were influenced by available players and tactical considerations, including benching Casado for the night. The discussion underscored the ongoing evaluation of squad balance as Barca navigates injuries and suspensions while keeping an eye on big European duties.

The Road Ahead

With the victory, Barcelona climbed to the top of La Liga on 31 points, temporarily ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference. Athletic Bilbao remained in eighth, on 17 points, reflecting a mixed season for the Basque club. The win also set the stage for a high-stakes Champions League tie against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, a match that will test Barca’s European ambitions and tactical cohesion after this domestic display.

In the Champions League group phase, Barca sat eleventh with seven points after four games, while Chelsea were close behind with seven points as well. The upcoming London fixture promises a tactical duel as Barca seek to translate domestic momentum onto the continental stage.

Regarding rumors about a potential Lionel Messi return, Flick addressed the topic candidly, praising Messi as one of football’s greatest. He also reminded that Messi’s status and contracts are out of his hands, noting that Messi’s Inter Miami deal runs until 2028 and Flick’s Barça contract ends in 2027. The door to a future reunion remains unknown, but for now, Barca stay focused on the present.