Raphinha maintained his impressive early-season form as Barcelona defeated Athletic Club 2-0 at Spotify Camp Nou to make it two wins from two in La Liga.
The Brazilian winger scored his third goal of the campaign before Fermin Lopez added a late second, while summer signing Rodri made his Barcelona debut from the bench following his £65m move from Manchester City.
Barcelona controlled the opening stages and quickly began creating chances. Lamine Yamal threatened early, while Raphinha struck the post as Hansi Flick’s side pushed for the breakthrough.
The pressure finally paid off in the 37th minute. Pedri released Raphinha with a well-timed through ball, allowing the winger to get beyond goalkeeper Unai Simon before finishing into the empty net.
Athletic struggled to establish themselves in attack, although Nico Williams sent an effort wide from outside the penalty area shortly before half-time.
The visitors showed more ambition after the restart and Anthony Gordon had an opportunity from inside the box, but his attempt went over the crossbar.
Barcelona remained the more dangerous side, with Simon producing a good save to deny Lopez. Shortly after the hour mark, Rodri was introduced in place of Raphinha to make his first competitive appearance for the Catalan club.
The result was secured eight minutes from time when Athletic failed to clear the danger inside their own penalty area. Lopez reacted quickest and converted from close range to give Barcelona a two-goal cushion.
The victory gives Flick’s team maximum points from their opening two league matches and completes a successful first home appearance of the new season.