Barcelona 5-0 Royal Antwerp, ‘The Joao Felix show’
Barcelona once again ran riots this time in Europe against Royal Antwerp.
Xavi and his men kept the same energy that they had in the league last week and cruised through their first test this year.
A comfortable 5-0 against the Belgian champions as the Catalans move onto the first spot. The Blaugranas displayed yet another great performance and showed the clubs that they are not to be taken lightly this season.
Having been knocked out in the group stage last year was something surprising for a club of this standard. However, they made it up by winning the league. The Spanish side has been struggling in the Champions League for a while now. The last time they won the competition was back in 2015.
Joao Felix opened the scoring in the 11th minute, after a sublime finish from outside the box. The Portuguese striker then went on to create one for the number 9, Robert Lewandowski. Who gave the Catalans a comfortable 2-0 lead in the 19th minute.
Former teammates Xavi and Van Bommel were also seen exchanging some words on the touchline. The Belgian champions needed something special to overturn the tie. However, the lead was extended shortly by a cross from Raphina which ended up being an own goal by Jelle Bataille.
The first sense of an opportunity came in the 43rd minute by Muja, which was easily saved by Ter Stegen.
The lead was extended later in the second half as Gavi scored his first Champions League goal.
Another week and another 5-0, as Joao Felix struck again in the 66th minute. The Portuguese forward has now scored in his La Liga debut and his Champions League debut.
Over the years, FC Barcelona have been unsuccessful in the transfer market but it is not the case this time. Without having to spend a dime, the Joao combo is indeed working well for the Catalans.
Starting the season with a goalless draw, the Catalans have stepped on the peddle. Back-to-back 5-0 wins, shows that Xavi’s men are in for contention this season.
They will be hosting Celta Vigo at home at the weekend, and by the looks of it, it won’t be much of a problem. Celta Vigo who are currently 16th in the league have only won 1 league game this season. Can they break the Catalan’s winning streak? We will soon find out.
