Barcelona’s third Champions League fixture of the season saw them host Greek champions Olympiacos at the Montjuïc, securing all three points to bounce back from their defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the previous matchday.
The game started nervously, with Barcelona showing some early sloppiness in the first ten minutes. However, once Fermín López finished a swift counter-attack, the Catalans took control and never looked back. Further goals from Fermín López, Marcus Rashford, and a penalty from Lamine Yamal ensured a comfortable victory.
These three points are crucial in keeping Barcelona on track for automatic qualification to the knockout stages, strengthening their bid to progress deep into the tournament.
We give the player ratings of the starting XI for the 6-1 victory.
Wojciech Szczesny - 6.5
Made an important save in the opening minute but caused unnecessary anxiety among Barcelona fans with his risky distribution and occasional wastefulness in possession.
Jules Kounde - 7.0
Unlucky from the corner in the first half, could've scored. The right-back controlled his flank comfortably and had an uneventful second half until being substituted midway through. A few sloppy passes slightly lowered his overall rating.
Eric Garcia - 7.0
His calm distribution and smart recoveries helped stop several Greek counter-attacks. Gave away a penalty but cannot be blamed for the handball.
Pau Cubarsi - 7.5
Looked the strongest from the back four with his aggression and control. Looked suspect on the disallowed Olympiacos goal though and anxiety comes when a ball comes in from the wide areas.
Alejandro Balde - 7.0
Gave the ball away a few times but set Barca on their way with a decisive ball through the middle for the first goal. Harsh yellow card marked his evening but looked backed to his consistent showing at left back.
Marc Casado - 7.0
His tackling was superb, always measured to avoid the risk of suspension after a previous yellow card in previous matches. His passing remained simple and effective, creating space for Fermin and Pedri to express their creativity in central areas.
Pedri - 7.5
Made the game look effortless. Dominated the midfield with composure and control, pressing intelligently and maintaining his intensity throughout without ever seeming stretched.
Lamine Yamal - 7.5
An impressive performance capped with a well-taken penalty. He was a constant threat down the flank, frequently running at the full-back, though not quite at the relentless level we’ve come to expect from him just yet.
Toni Fernandez - 7.0
Lively in the first half, carried the ball with confidence and intent. Marked improvement from the Girona game and set up Fermín’s second goal.
Fermin Lopez - 9.5
The hat-trick hero seized control of the game in the first half, setting the tone for Barcelona’s dominance. His opener may have been a little scrappy, but his class was undeniable in the second and third goals.
Marcus Rashford - 9.0
He simply thrives on Champions League nights. Won the penalty and followed it up with two well-taken goals, showcasing his quality in particular with a superb second finish. Picked up some good positions throughout the second half as the game got stretched for the ten men.