By Desmond Nleya
Barcelona produced a commanding performance to crush Athletic Bilbao 5-0 in their Spanish Super Cup semifinal in Jeddah, with Fermin López and Raphinha starring in a one-sided contest on Wednesday night.
López scored once and provided two assists, while Raphinha netted a brace as Hansi Flick’s side tore through their Basque opponents, extending their winning streak to nine matches. Ferran Torres and Roony Bardghji were also on the scoresheet as Barcelona effectively settled the tie before half-time.
Despite watching from the bench for much of the match, teenage star Lamine Yamal was introduced late on and is expected to be available for Sunday’s final at the same venue.
Barcelona took the lead in the 22nd minute when Torres capitalised on an awkward delivery from López — initially appearing like a mis-hit shot — controlling expertly before finishing from close range.
The advantage was doubled on the half-hour mark as Raphinha reached the byline and pulled the ball back for López, who finished clinically from the centre of the box.
López then turned provider again four minutes later, sliding a simple pass to Bardghji, who showcased neat footwork inside the area before firing low past the goalkeeper to make it 3-0.
The Catalans were rampant and added a fourth before the break when Raphinha burst into the penalty area and smashed a powerful shot into the roof of the net.
Raphinha completed his brace seven minutes into the second half after Athletic failed to clear their lines, with the Brazilian reacting quickest to fire home a left-footed strike and complete the rout.
Barcelona will now face the winner of Thursday’s second semifinal between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid as they look to lift the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah.
