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Barcelona made a stunning start to their 2023-24 Champions League campaign with a commanding 5-0 victory over Royal Antwerp at the Olympic Stadium in Montjuic.
The early ignition came courtesy of Joao Felix, who capitalized on a pass from Ilkay Gundogan. Felix found the net at the near post, providing Barcelona with a perfect start.
Felix played a pivotal role in the second goal as well, delivering an exquisite cross to Robert Lewandowski at the back post. The Polish international marked his 100th goal in UEFA club competitions, extending Barcelona’s lead to 2-0.
Barcelona’s third goal arrived just four minutes later, with Raphinha’s cross deflecting off Jelle Bataille and into the net, further solidifying Xavi Hernandez’s team’s impressive halftime lead.
Ten minutes into the second half, Barcelona notched their fourth goal. Gavi seized an opportunity inside the penalty area, firing the ball into the roof of the net. This marked a significant moment for the 19-year-old as he scored his first-ever Champions League goal.
Felix extended the lead to 5-0 in the 66th minute. Raphinha delivered an inviting cross to the back post, where the 23-year-old was poised to secure his second goal of the evening. However, he was substituted immediately after scoring, missing out on a potential hat-trick.
Despite Lamine Yamal squandering two notable chances to score his maiden Barcelona goal, the outcome was never in doubt for the Catalans. They now lead the group, with FC Porto in second place.