Bilbao: Barcelona concluded their triumphant 2024-25 campaign emphatically, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at the iconic San Mamés. Robert Lewandowski’s first-half brace and a late Dani Olmo penalty ensured the Blaugrana signed off with a statement win in one of football’s most atmospheric venues.
Match Highlights
- 5’ – Athletic’s early joy short-lived: Unai Gómez’s headed goal was chalked off for offside after a VAR review.
- 14’ – Lewandowski strikes first: The Polish striker latched onto Fermín López’s incisive through ball and dinked a delicate chip over Unai Simón.
- 18’ – Lewy doubles up: Raphinha’s corner caused chaos, with Lewandowski nodding home at the far post after a flick-on.
- 90+3’ – Penalty sealed: Olmo was fouled by Yuri Berchiche, confirmed by VAR.
- 90+4’ – Olmo’s exclamation mark: The substitute coolly converted from the spot to cap the rout.
Tactical Mastery
Barcelona’s high defensive line neutralized Athletic’s attacks, with offside calls repeatedly denying the hosts. Manager Xavi Hernández deployed a fluid 4-2-3-1, leveraging Gavi and Pedri’s midfield control and Lamine Yamal’s width. Athletic, already secure in mid-table, lacked urgency but tested backup keeper Iñaki Peña sporadically.
Season in Review
The victory punctuated a “glorious, unforgettable” season for Barça, who reclaimed La Liga and made deep European runs. Lewandowski’s 28 league goals earned him the Pichichi Trophy, while teenage center-back Pau Cubarsí solidified his status as a generational talent.
Post-Match Reactions
- Xavi Hernández: “To win here, in this stadium, is always special. This group has made history.”
- Lewandowski: “Scoring at San Mamés is a privilege. We wanted to finish strong for our fans.”
- Ernesto Valverde (Athletic): “Barça were clinical. We’ll regroup for next season.”
