Hansi Flick’s reign as Barcelona’s head coach began on a positive note as the Blaugranes secured a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory against Valencia at the Mestalla. Robert Lewandowski’s brace was the difference-maker, as Barça overturned a first-half deficit to claim all three points in their La Liga 2024 -2025 opener of season.
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Flick’s Tactical Statement
Hansi Flick made a bold statement by placing his trust in youth for his first competitive game. Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal, both of whom impressed during preseason, were rewarded with starting spots, with 17-year-old Bernal making his competitive debut. Flick’s approach emphasized the importance of hard work and development within the squad.
The game plan was evident from the start: Barcekiba FC aimed to exploit Lamine Yamal’s pace and skill in one-on-one situations against Jesús Vázquez, with Raphinha operating in a more central attacking role to create overloads. Despite this, Valencia posed a threat, especially through Almeida’s set pieces. Raphinha came close with a long-range effort, but clear-cut chances remained elusive.
Valencia Takes the Lead Before Barça Responds
The match seemed to be heading towards a goalless first half until Valencia broke the deadlock in the 45th minute. Hugo Duro found space behind Iñigo Martínez and finished a cross from Diego López to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. However, the drama was far from over. In stoppage time, Yamal’s cross-shot fell to Lewandowski, who instinctively finished to level the score at 1-1 just before the halftime whistle.
Lewandowski Completes the Comeback
Barça took control early in the second half, with Raphinha drawing a penalty after outsmarting Mosquera. Lewandowski stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick to complete his brace and give Barça a 2-1 lead in the 49th minute. The goal also marked Lewandowski’s 85th in 72 games under Flick, showcasing the chemistry between the striker and his coach, which dates back to their successful partnership at Bayern Munich.
With the lead in hand, Barça managed the game well, limiting Valencia’s opportunities while maintaining control of possession. Flick made several changes, introducing Gerard Martín for his debut, as well as Christensen and Pedri, who returned from injury to make his 100th LaLiga appearance.
Solid Defense and Promising Debuts
Barcelona’s defense held firm in the closing stages, with Eric Garcia replacing Bernal and Pau Víctor also making his debut. The trio of Pau Víctor, Gerard Martín, and Casadó nearly combined for a third goal, but Lewandowski’s late chance was denied. Despite Valencia’s pressure, Barça’s disciplined performance secured Flick’s first competitive win and an important three points to kick off the season.
La Liga Points Table 2024 – 2025
Check the below mentioned tabular column for the La Liga points table 2024 – 2025 on Aug 18, 2024.
| La Liga 2024-2025 | GP | W | D | L | F | A | GD | P |
| Celta Vigo | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| Barcelona | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| Rayo Vallecano | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| Las Palmas | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| Sevilla | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| Girona | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Getafe | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Mallorca | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Leganés | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Real Betis | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Osasuna | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Real Madrid | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Athletic Club | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Atlético Madrid | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Espanyol | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Real Valladolid | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Villarreal | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Alavés | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | -1 | 0 |
| Real Sociedad | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | -1 | 0 |
| Valencia | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | -1 | 0 |
Feeds From The Gram
What’s Next?
Hansi Flick and his Barcelona squad will look to build on this opening-day success as they continue their LaLiga campaign, aiming to sustain the momentum and challenge for the title.
