Robert Lewandowski’s goal 15 minutes from time secured a second-straight victory for Barcelona, this time accounting for Athletic Club in their home opener in La Liga.
It was a case of try and try again for Lewandowski, who hit the post either side of half-time – first a curling effort and then a bullet header – and then saw a stinging half-volley blocked by Alex Padilla.
Padilla could do nothing to stop the winner though, where the ball fell to the Polish striker after a smart run and cross from Pedri.
After a stale opening, Lamine Yamal lit up the game with a run and 25-yard curling effort which deflected past Padilla, but the lead was cancelled out before the break after VAR ruled that Pau Cubarsi clipped the heels of Alex Berenguer in the box. Oihan Sancet sent Marc-Andre ter Stegen the wrong way from the spot.
Barcelona dominated the second half and were good value for the victory which sees them share the early La Liga lead with Celta Vigo.