Barcelona Triumphs Over Barbastro: Lewandowski Shines with Double, Young Talent Debuts, and Copa del Rey Hopes Stay Alive

Barcelona Triumphs Over Barbastro

Barcelona Secures Victory in Barbastro Under Pressure

Barcelona faced Barbastro with the weight of poor form at the end of 2024, including losing their LaLiga lead and earning just one point out of nine. With the need to advance in the Copa del Rey and a locker room shaken by LaLiga and RFEF’s refusal to re-register Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor, the team stepped up. A double from Lewandowski, a standout performance by Pablo Torre, and the debut of academy player Toni Fernández brought much-needed relief and kept them alive in a tournament they aim to win.

Barça coach Hansi Flick praised Éric Garcia, dismissing rumors of a potential return to Girona. Flick called him intelligent, versatile, and professional, and started him in midfield, where Garcia has excelled under Flick’s leadership. Garcia rewarded the confidence by scoring his first goal of the season, a vital contribution in a match where he played a key role.

After three goalless matches, Robert Lewandowski returned to form with a double against Barbastro, taking his tally to eight goals across competitions this season, plus a hat-trick earlier in the campaign. The Polish striker continues to lead Barcelona’s attack with authority, reinforcing his status as the team's top scorer.

Veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny finally made his Barcelona debut following a long-term injury to Ter Stegen. Despite joining in October, the Polish keeper had not yet played due to fitness issues and Flick's trust in Iñaki Peña. Szczesny faced little action during the game but showed composure, apart from a late miscommunication that was neutralized by teammate Cubarsí.

Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor, deregistered from the squad, remain central topics at the club. Pau Víctor showed his support for the team on social media during the game but is reportedly struggling with the situation. Both players hope the club will resolve the matter soon, allowing them to return to the pitch.

collision between Íñigo Martínez and Barbastro's Jaime Ara caused a frightening moment in the match. Jaime, who suffered the worst of the clash, was stretchered off and later fainted in the locker room, prompting a hospital visit. Thankfully, he regained consciousness, and fans hope for his swift recovery.