The victory against Bayern demonstrated the overwhelming strength of Barcelona, featuring outstanding talents from the La Masia academy like Pedri, Fermin, Casado, Yamal, and Balde, all of whom shone on the pitch. Clearly, Barcelona is building a solid foundation for the future.
Recreating Barca 2015
“Barca is our life” was the chant echoing throughout the Olympic Stadium. The celebration began even before the match started, with a fantastic atmosphere around the stadium. Last night, a total of 50,312 fans attended, surpassing the number at the Barca vs PSG match last season (50,309).
On the pitch, the main celebration unfolded. A dominant victory kicked off with Raphinha scoring in the first minute, assisted by Fermin Lopez.
However, this was not an easy win as the score might suggest. Bayern Munich, one of the greatest clubs in Europe, made Barcelona work hard in the first half. But Barcelona managed to respond, fueled by their fans, who continuously cheered them on.
The bond between players and supporters is growing stronger. This was evident in every goal, culminating in a 4-1 victory highlighted by Raphinha’s hat-trick. The Brazilian star evoked memories of Neymar’s celebration after the 2015 Champions League final. Cules had endured many difficult nights to savor such a wonderful moment.
Like in 2015, Barcelona played more direct and vertical football. They may not have Messi or Neymar, but they have a 17-year-old named Lamine Yamal, who played like a veteran. He bravely carried the ball and produced stunning plays that amazed the fans.
La Masia’s Mark
The win against Bayern was even more meaningful for Cules as young players from La Masia shone. Not just Lamine Yamal, but also Marc Casado, who overshadowed Joshua Kimmich, and Alejandro Balde, who is nearing the level of Alphonso Davies.
Fermin Lopez contributed 2 assists while showcasing a more German-style physicality than the typical Barca technique. Meanwhile, Pau Cubarsi proved himself to be a “kaiser” against the Germans. Gavi and Ansu Fati also left their marks, all under 21 years old.
And let’s not forget Pedri, who orchestrated the midfield with the elegance of Andres Iniesta. Dani Olmo, after years of wandering, returned to make his mark. In goal, Inaki Pena showed incredible confidence.
The young talents from La Masia will face another challenge in the upcoming El Clasico, where the world’s two best teams will compete fiercely.