Barcelona crush Valencia with seven-goal masterclass

Five of the Blaugrana's goals came in a whirlwind first half, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical precision.

After the game, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick described the performance as "the perfect game," praising the team's energy and execution.

"We needed those fresh legs," Flick said. "Everyone was very involved and played impeccably. The way we scored was excellent. It was a great game, perfect."

Fermin Lopez stole the show with two goals and two assists, earning the man of the match award. Flick was full of praise for the midfielder: "He's been involved in several goals and has won the MVP. I'm delighted with him.

"It's incredible what he played. It's beautiful to watch him play."

Fermin's contributions were pivotal. His first goal came after Pau Cubarsi's long ball, while his second was a composed finish following Raphinha's effort off the crossbar.

Lopez also assisted Robert Lewandowski's goal, as the Polish striker clinically struck across the goal after Valencia's consolation through Hugo Duro.

Barcelona overwhelmed Valencia with four goals inside the opening 25 minutes. Frenkie de Jong opened the scoring after a clever Lamine Yamal chip, while Ferran Torres doubled the lead with a volley from Alejandro Balde's cross.

Raphinha and Lopez added to the tally before half-time, with Raphinha rounding the goalkeeper for one of the highlights.

Flick also highlighted his faith in his goalkeepers, explaining Wojciech Szczesny's selection: "We have never lost with Szczesny in goal. He was the right decision today."

Despite the emphatic victory, Flick remained grounded, urging his players to build on the performance. "We need more points," he stated. "We have to play like this in every game."

Barcelona remain third in La Liga, seven points behind leaders Real Madrid. They now turn their attention to a Copa del Rey quarter-final rematch against Valencia in 11 days.

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