Barcelona made it two wins from two in La Liga with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club at Camp Nou on Thursday night. Goals from Raphinha and Fermín López lifted Hansi Flick’s side to the top of the table on six points.

The hosts controlled much of the contest after a 5-0 opening-day win at Elche. Raphinha, who already has three goals in two league matches, broke the deadlock in the 37th minute with a well-worked finish.

Athletic goalkeeper, Unai Simón produced several important saves to keep the score at 1-0 until half-time, as Barcelona wasted a number of additional chances.

Flick started several young players, including Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Bernal and Xavi Espart. World Cup winner Rodri, signed from Manchester City earlier this month, made his Barcelona debut from the bench after being left out of the Elche match. His introduction added extra control in midfield as the champions pushed for a second goal.

Fermín sealed the win in the 82nd minute, capping another influential display after scoring twice in the opening fixture. Athletic, now without a point from two games, offered little in attack and struggled to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm.

The result underlines Flick’s strong start to the new campaign, even as the team continues to adjust after Robert Lewandowski’s departure.

Real Madrid also remain unbeaten after two matches, setting up an early title-race contrast between the two sides.

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