FC Barcelona - Athletic Club

Athletic Club suffered a 2-0 defeat at the Camp Nou in a match in which they stayed in contention thanks to Unai Simón’s saves and came close to snatching an equaliser when Sancet’s effort struck the post. That chance was followed by Barça’s decisive second goal, scored by Fermín after an individual error.

Edin Terzić’s side suffered less in the first half against the champions, although Simón was forced into two good saves from Lamine Yamal. Raphinha, who had earlier headed against the post, made it 1-0 after latching onto a through ball from Pedri and beating the Athletic goalkeeper before finding the net. Johaneko, who made his official debut for Athletic Club, left a good impression and dealt well with Barça's attackers.

The Lions rarely threatened, with only two balls played in behind for Canales. In the second half, Lamine struck the crossbar, while Espart and Fermín continued to test an outstanding Simón, who could do nothing to prevent the 2-0 after an unfortunate sequence involving Laporte.

The disappointment was that, before then, Berenguer had set up Sancet with the chance to equalise, only for his shot to come back off Joan García’s post. Now it is time to push hard in Vigo on Sunday and start picking up points.