Barça always comes back

Barça comes from behind with authority at Balaídos: 2-4 against Celta with an unstoppable Lewandowski

FC Barcelona once again demonstrated its hierarchy and ability to react with a convincing 2-4 victory over Celta de Vigo at Balaídos. A thrilling match highlighted by Robert Lewandowski’s hat-trick, the defensive solidity provided by Eric García in Koundé’s place, and the notable performance of Marcus Rashford, who was key both in attack and defensive duties.

Eric García, key to defensive stability

Koundé’s absence led Flick to place Eric García at right-back. Despite playing with a protective mask due to the nasal fracture he suffered in the match against Club Brugge, the Catalan center-back delivered a very solid performance, organizing the defensive line and providing clean, effective ball distribution. His presence gave the team greater stability at the back, especially noticeable in the second half as Celta pushed for an equalizer. Eric not only fulfilled his role but stepped up at a moment when the team needed security.

Rashford, total commitment on both ends

While Lewandowski stood out for his goals, Marcus Rashford was the team’s driving force thanks to his physical effort and dedication. The English forward offered a complete performance: active in attack, creating space and assisting teammates, while also tracking back to defend intensely when Celta pressed, particularly in the second half. His work in recovering the ball and participating in high pressing demonstrated a level of commitment that inspired the rest of the team.

Lewandowski, the tireless goal scorer

The Polish striker was decisive once again. With three classy goals, Lewandowski led Barça’s comeback. His first goal came from a penalty, the second from a pure striker’s finish, and he completed his hat-trick with a masterful strike inside the area. Beyond scoring, he was active in build-up play, dropping deep to receive and facilitating the team’s offensive combinations. His performance recalled his best nights, confirming he remains Barça’s offensive reference.

A victory that boosts confidence

The 2-4 at Balaídos not only adds three points but leaves very positive feelings. The team knew how to react, showed character, and, most importantly, made progress in areas that had been criticized: defensive solidity, collective commitment, and efficiency in the opponent’s box. With performances like yesterday’s, Barça inspires its fans again and sends a clear message: this team is ready to compete for everything.

Team-wide performance

It’s hard to single out just one player, as Barça, especially in the second half, delivered a very strong team performance. Yesterday, we saw a more coordinated high press, which prevented the opponent from creating as many chances behind the defense as in recent matches. Obviously, players like Lewandowski, for his hat-trick, Rashford, for his two assists, and Lamine Yamal, for his goal and constant threat in every play, deserve recognition. But we must also highlight Frenkie de Jong, who especially in the second half dominated the match, and Eric García, whose performance may make Hansi Flick seriously reconsider starting Koundé as right-back.

On the other hand, it could have been Szczesny’s last match, as once again he didn’t have his best performance. The Polish goalkeeper is far from last season’s level and could have done more on Celta’s two goals.

Alberola Rojas also left his mark on the match

Several controversial plays occurred in a match marked by a high pace of play, yet also by fair play from both teams. The first contentious moment was Marcos Alonso’s penalty. Initially, Alberola Rojas signaled a corner, but VAR alerted him to review the clear handball by the former FC Barcelona defender. The replay left no doubt, and Lewandowski scored the first goal of the night.


Besides the penalty, it wasn’t a match full of controversies, but there were decisions that always seemed to favor the home team. A clear grab by Borja Iglesias on Frenkie de Jong was not booked, while a challenge by Cubarsí, who touched the ball and was then stepped on by the Celta player, did result in a yellow card for the Barça defender, much to his disbelief. In stoppage time, Alberola Rojas sought to make an impact by unjustly sending off Frenkie de Jong for a non-existent foul in midfield, in a completely irrelevant play.

After the break, Raphinha and Joan García

The current focus for FC Barcelona is the international break. Most players have been called up for international duty, but two players remain at home to complete their injury recoveries. These are Raphinha and Joan García, who, barring any setbacks, are expected to return against Athletic on Saturday the 22nd.

Fingers crossed that this third break of the season doesn’t bring more injuries, and that we can once again enjoy Barça’s squad almost at full strength, aside from the long-term absences of Marc-André Ter Stegen and Gavi.

MVP Rashford

The English winger takes home the MVP of yesterday’s match. He delivered an outstanding attacking performance, with 2 assists and a shot that hit the post, while also showing defensive commitment to earn the match’s MVP.

Lewandowski, despite his hat-trick, earns 3 more points and continues climbing the rankings. The Polish striker returns from injury fully fit and is now Barça’s top scorer in La Liga. Lamine Yamal adds 2 more points, closing in on the top spot held by the injured Pedri. The Rocafonda-born player had another standout performance, scoring a goal and being a constant threat every time he touched the ball. Finally, Fermín earns one more point, keeping him within the top 3 of the player rankings for another week.

Athletic Club

Athletic Club arrives at the clash against Barça eager to make a statement. Ernesto Valverde’s team is having an irregular season and sits in seventh place in LaLiga, slightly below expectations after a strong start. At San Mamés, there is a mix of impatience and confidence that the squad can react and regain its form.

In recent matchdays, Athletic has shown a good version at home, although they still struggle to close out games. The potential return of Sancet and Iñaki Williams is great news for Valverde, as he would regain two key attacking pieces. With their usual intensity and direct wing play, Los Leones will try to surprise and stop an opponent that always particularly motivates them.

And that’s it for the sixth episode of ADN Culé. We’ll be back on Sunday the 23rd after the league match against Athletic Club, following the international break. Thanks for joining us, culers, and see you in the next episode.