Barcelona's youth stars were in irresistible form as they routed Valencia but their veteran goalkeeper is a cause for concern
Barcelona secured just their second win in nine La Liga games in a 7-1 mauling of Valencia on Sunday night.
The Blaugrana, who looked to banish the ghosts of their disappointing draw away to Getafe last time out, began like a house on fire when Frenkie de Jong dispatched Lamine Yamal's delightful pass in the third minute.
Ex-Valencia forward Ferran Torres then instinctively fired in Alejandro Balde's teasing cross five minutes later and Raphinha put the game beyond doubt in the 14th minute when he rounded Giorgi Mamardashvili from Lopez's stunning first-time pass.
The sparkling Lopez bagged his first goal of the season when he beat the offside trap and then cushioned a confident finish past the helpless Valencia keeper. The 21-year-old rounded off a remarkable opening 45 when he confidently rebounded in Raphinha's effort that struck the bar.
The home team took their foot off the gas in the early stages of the second half and Valencia capitalised when Hugo Duro grabbed a consolation effort just before the hour mark.
That awoke Barca from their second-half slumber as substitute Robert Lewandowski restored their five-goal cushion with a superb shot and then Valencia's wretched night continued when Cesar Tarrega turned the ball into his own net 15 minutes from time.
The result meant Barca, who were at their brilliant best but the away side were poor, closed to within seven points of league leaders Real Madrid.
GOAL rates Barcelona's players from the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys…
AFPGoalkeeper & Defence
Wojciech Szczesny (5/10):
Was once again preferred to Inaki Pena but did not look convincing. Looked like the 34-year-old gave away a second penalty in as many games but was saved by VAR. Questions will be asked of the Pole again if he continues to play like this.
Jules Kounde (7/10):
Had a very comfortable night but did not get forward as much as he has in recent games.
Pau Cubarsi (7/10):
The 18-year-old was competent at the back and largely snuffed out the trouble that came his way.
Eric Garcia (7/10):
Started for the second game in a row but didn't have nearly as many challenges as the ones thrown his way against Benfica.
Alejandro Balde (8/10):
Loves to get forward and is very good at it. Bagged a lovely assist and adds a lot in attack.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportMidfield
Marc Casado (7/10):
Was fortunate not to concede a penalty as his sliding tackles nearly got him into trouble. But he does a lot of the unseen work in midfield.
Frenkie de Jong (8/10):
The Dutchman started the rout with a well-taken goal and while he has struggled for game time, he is a valuable squad member.
Fermin Lopez (9/10):
Came into the starting lineup and was in irresistible form. Goals, assists, and a stunning all-round display.
Getty Images SportAttack
Lamine Yamal (8/10):
Was a joy to watch, especially with his slide-rule passing and nutmegs. The 17-year-old was happy to provide for others.
Ferran Torres (8/10):
Showed his clinical side with a lovely goal and on another night could have had a hat-trick.
Raphinha (8/10):
The Brazilian is in the form of his life and cannot stop scoring. Pace, skill, power – he's got the lot.
GettySubs & Manager
Robert Lewandowski (8/10):
The arch-finisher angled in a terrific strike with virtually his first touch for his 17th league goal of the season.
Gerard Martin (7/10):
Looked neat and tidy when he came on.
Pau Victor (6/10):
Came on when the game was well and truly won.
Hector Fort (7/10):
The substitute looked lively when introduced.
Pablo Torre (N/A):
Not enough time to make an impact.
Hansi Flick (8/10):
Made four changes to the side that dramatically beat Benfica 5-4 in the Champions League in midweek and it paid off as those brought in shone. The German's team were brilliant to watch at times.