By Score More
Barcelona, FC Porto’s upcoming opponent in the Champions League, hosted and secured a resounding 5-0 victory against Real Betis at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium. The match was particularly noteworthy as it marked the first starting appearance for João Félix and João Cancelo, who had previously debuted for the Blaugrana as substitutes in the game against Osasuna.
While Cancelo delivered a composed performance, displaying his trademark attacking runs, João Félix showcased his talents in a remarkable manner. In the 25th minute, he received a cross from Oriol Romeu, left Bellerín trailing, and, after maneuvering past Rui Silva, he beat his compatriot from an almost impossible angle, notching his debut goal for the new team.
A mere seven minutes later, at the 32nd minute, Félix demonstrated his impact without even touching the ball. With a clever move, he opened his legs, allowing Christensen’s pass to find Lewandowski, who did what he does best – scoring, in this instance, his third goal of the season.
Real Betis struggled to mount any resistance against a dominant Barcelona side that took control of the match from the outset. In the second half (62nd minute), Ferrán Torres showcased his skills with a direct free-kick goal (the first such goal for Barcelona since Lionel Messi in 2021), curving the ball around the wall to net the third. At this point, the Sevillian team was in disarray, and the depth of Barcelona’s squad became evident when Yamal, Lewandowski, and Raphinha combined for the fourth goal, making it a very comfortable night for the Catalan team.
João Félix exited the field at the 64th minute, and it was in his absence that João Cancelo, in a brilliant run down the right flank, left Juan Miranda helpless on the ground and delivered a precise cross into the box, securing Barcelona’s fifth goal. Both of our Joãos had an outstanding evening!
In the Real Betis team, it’s unfortunate to note the injury setback suffered by Rui Silva, who started the match but had to be substituted at halftime due to a shoulder injury sustained in the first half.