Two matches, two victories: Barcelona has followed up its goal-laden start to La Liga with another well-deserved win. Manager Hansi Flick's side defeated Athletic Bilbao 2:0 (1:0) and welcomed its new midfield orchestrator Rodri with loud applause.

The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner was substituted on in the 63rd minute and took the pitch to enthusiastic cheers from the fans. He had arrived from Manchester City approximately one week earlier for around 76 million euros.

After the Spanish champions opened their season over the weekend with a 5:0 (2:0) victory at Elche, Brazilian forward Raphinha secured the lead on Thursday in the 37th minute, with Fermin Lopez sealing the result in the 82nd minute.

Adeyemi sets up the 2:0 goal

Against the side of German manager Edin Terzic, the dominant Catalans had already squandered several clear-cut chances in their home debut, with a goal from World Cup winner Pedri ruled out for offside in the 29th minute.

Barcelona remained on the front foot after the restart. Lamine Yamal struck the crossbar in the 54th minute. Karim Adeyemi, who had made a dream start against Elche with a goal, was not brought on until the 80th minute. Less than two minutes later, he was involved in the 2:0 with a sharp cross.

Following a defensive mishap, Lopez tapped in from close range. Adeyemi failed to add his own goal despite a huge chance late in the match, shooting straight at Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon from three meters out in the 88th minute.