sevendayweekender – Robert Lewandowski struck twice to guide Barcelona to a 3-0 win over Athletic Club on the final day of the season. The Polish striker opened the scoring with a composed chip over Unai Simon in the 14th minute. Just three minutes later, he doubled Barcelona’s lead, heading home Raphinha’s curling corner at the far post. The quick-fire double gave Lewandowski 27 league goals and 40 in all competitions for the season.
With the title already secured two games earlier, Barcelona used the match to underline their dominance. They reached a century of league goals with Lewandowski’s first strike, highlighting their attacking strength under new manager Hansi Flick. The win also marked Barcelona’s 28th La Liga title and capped a domestic treble.
Despite their early two-goal deficit, Athletic Club had opportunities to respond before halftime. However, wasteful finishing from forward Maroan Sannadi left them scoreless at the break.
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Missed Chances Haunt Athletic Despite Spirited First-Half Performance
Athletic Club showed signs of fight after conceding twice in the opening 20 minutes. They created two clear chances before halftime, both falling to Sannadi. First, he missed from six yards after meeting Unai Nunez’s accurate cross. Moments later, he broke through the Barcelona defense but poked wide with only Inaki Pena to beat.
The home side pressed forward but lacked the clinical edge needed against top-tier opposition. Oscar de Marcos, making his 570th and final appearance, played a key role in Athletic’s attacks. His pass to Sannadi for the second chance was particularly well-weighted. However, Barcelona’s organized defense and Athletic’s poor finishing kept the score at 2-0.
Barcelona controlled possession for most of the half, absorbing pressure and striking on the counter. Their ability to remain composed under pressure reflected the tactical structure implemented by Flick. Despite the missed chances from Athletic, the match felt firmly in Barcelona’s control.
Lewandowski Falls Short of Hat-Trick as Barcelona Push On
After the break, Barcelona maintained their dominance and continued to create chances. Lewandowski came close to a third goal on multiple occasions. However, his finishing lacked the precision of the first half. His best opportunity came from a close-range header that sailed over the bar.
Barcelona’s midfield, led by Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, dictated the tempo throughout the second half. Raphinha remained a threat on the right wing, stretching the Athletic defense and creating space for Lewandowski and others. Substitute Dani Olmo brought fresh energy into the attack and played an important role late in the game.
Athletic responded with a few dangerous set pieces. One of the closest came when Pau Cubarsi’s attempted defensive clearance hit his own crossbar. Despite their efforts, Athletic failed to break down a disciplined and confident Barcelona side.
Dani Olmo Seals Victory from the Spot in Added Time
Barcelona wrapped up the win with a stoppage-time penalty from Dani Olmo. He was brought down inside the box by Yuri Berchiche during a late counterattack. Olmo confidently converted the penalty, sending Unai Simon the wrong way and confirming Barcelona’s 3-0 triumph.
The goal capped a strong individual performance from the Spanish midfielder, who has impressed under Flick’s leadership. His late-game presence ensured Barcelona ended their season on a high note, with 88 points from 28 wins and four draws.
The victory also emphasized Flick’s successful first season in charge, having won La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. Barcelona’s treble highlights their return to dominance in Spanish football under new leadership.
Athletic Club End on a High Note Despite Final Defeat
Despite the loss, Athletic Club secured a top-four finish and Champions League football next season. They ended the campaign level on 70 points with Villarreal but edged ahead on goal difference. Coach Ernesto Valverde praised his team’s consistency and competitive spirit across the season.
The match also marked the end of an era for captain Oscar de Marcos. Substituted in the 89th minute, he received a standing ovation from fans at San Mames. He passed the armband to Inaki Williams, who is expected to lead the team into the next chapter.
Athletic’s campaign, marked by resilience and strong home form, earned them a well-deserved spot in Europe. While their final match ended in defeat, their overall performance throughout the season showed promise for the future.
With Barcelona celebrating another treble and Athletic looking forward to a Champions League return, both clubs closed their seasons with a sense of accomplishment.
