Barcelona marked their long-awaited return to Camp Nou with a 4-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Saturday, climbing to the top of the La Liga standings. After more than two-and-a-half years of playing away due to stadium renovations, the Catalan giants delighted the 45,157 fans in attendance with a brilliant performance.
The hosts wasted no time settling back into their iconic home, with Lewandowski finding the net in just the fourth minute. Eric Garcia won possession high up the pitch, allowing the Polish striker to beat Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon at his near post.
Despite Simon getting a hand to the ball, the power of the strike ensured Barcelona’s first goal at the renovated stadium. Athletic struggled to create meaningful chances, and their misery deepened just before halftime when Lamine Yamal’s exquisite pass set up Torres to double the lead.
Barcelona continued their dominance in the second half, extending their advantage three minutes after the restart. Another high press from Eric Garcia forced a turnover, leading to a clinical finish from Fermin Lopez.
Athletic’s hopes of a comeback were extinguished in the 53rd minute when midfielder Oihan Sancet was sent off for a reckless challenge on Lopez following a VAR review. Down to 10 men, the visitors offered little resistance as Barcelona controlled the remainder of the match.
Torres capped off the victory in the closing stages, scoring his second goal of the night after another brilliant assist from 18-year-old Yamal. The goal was initially flagged for offside but was awarded after a VAR check, sealing a perfect homecoming for Hansi Flick’s side.
While the stadium remains a work in progress with a reduced capacity, the atmosphere was electric as fans celebrated the team’s return. The renovation project, set to be completed by 2027, will eventually increase capacity to 105,000.
For now, Barcelona will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on December 9, having received UEFA authorization to play at Camp Nou.