Robert Lewandowski was at his best, scoring twice as Barcelona dominated fourth-division side Barbastro 4-0 on Saturday. The win sends Barca into the last 16 of the Copa del Rey, a great start to their 2025 campaign.
Dominant from the Start
Barca did not waste any time in asserting their dominance against an Aragonian team that is languishing in the relegation zone of Group Two in the Segunda Federación. Defender Eric Garcia opened the scoring in the 21st minute, heading home a well-placed cross from Ronald Araujo.
Lewandowski doubled the lead just 10 minutes later, nodding in a precise cross from Pablo Torre, who was instrumental throughout the match.
Lewandowski Leads the Charge
Lewandowski was on the receiving end of the Polish striker’s second goal only two minutes into the second half. Torre, the provider once more, set up Lewandowski with a composed finish near the penalty spot, moving the game decisively beyond the reach of Barbastro.
Breakout Performance from Pablo Torre
Pablo Torre sealed his outstanding performance with a goal of his own. Taking advantage of a costly mistake by Barbastro goalkeeper Arnau Fabrega, the 21-year-old midfielder slotted home Barcelona’s fourth goal, securing an emphatic win for the visitors.
A Smoother Path Compared to Last Season
This was the second consecutive season that Barcelona and Barbastro faced off in the Copa del Rey round of 32. However, unlike last season’s narrow 3-2 win, where Lewandowski’s late penalty was the decider, Barca made light work of their lower-tier opponents this time.
Barbastro only managed two attempts in the whole game, whereas Barcelona had 19 shots on target, nine of them. The visitors had an expected goals (xG) of 2.91, while Barbastro could only muster 0.06.
Barcelona’s Cup Ambitions Revived
After being knocked out in the quarter-finals of last season’s Copa del Rey by eventual champions Athletic Bilbao, Barcelona is determined to regain its cup glory. This comprehensive win not only sets off on the right note but also sends out a message from the team to go further this time.
