In a commanding display in their Champions League Group H opener, Barcelona triumphed 5-0 over Royal Antwerp at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, with their new forward, Joao Felix, stealing the spotlight.
Former Chelsea loanee Joao Felix showcased his exceptional skills, contributing a stylish brace to Barcelona’s victory. Barca, determined to avoid another early exit from the group stage, provided Antwerp, who made their debut in the competition, with a footballing lesson.
The Catalan side dominated possession with precise passing, and goals came from the likes of Felix, Robert Lewandowski, and Gavi.
Joao Felix, making an impact early in the match, opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a well-placed strike inside the near post. The Portuguese talent continued to shine, setting up Lewandowski just eight minutes later, allowing the Polish striker to join the elite club of players with 100 European competition goals, a feat previously achieved only by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Raphinha added to Barcelona’s tally, making it 3-0 for the five-time European champions after 22 minutes. His shot from a tight angle deflected off defender Jelle Bataille, resulting in an own goal for Antwerp.