[WATCH] Fermin Lopez fires Barcelona ahead vs. Valencia

Barcelona have stormed to a 1-0- first half lead on their La Liga return up against rivals Valencia back in Catalonia.

After a fresh delay to their planned Esatdio Camp Nou comeback, Barcelona have been forced into another temporary solution with the game taking place at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.

Hansi Flick opted for a host of changes for the clash with Los Che, and one of his rotations missed the game’s first chance, as Marcus Rashford fired off target.

The hosts went on to miss a host of chances before the half hour mark with Rashford and Jules Kounde both guilty of wasting openings before Fermin Lopez finally found a breakthrough.

Spain star Ferran Torres retained his starting place in Flick’s plans, and his clever pass freed up Lopez, and the midfielder confidently steered home the opener for Barcelona.

🚨🇪🇸 FERMIN LOPEZ OPENS THE SCORING FOR BARCELONA!

Barcelona 1-0 Valencia.pic.twitter.com/FJc3HPJFOu

— Tekkers Foot (@tekkersfoot) September 14, 2025

Flick had opened that goal would trigger a flood of goals for Barcelona but the home side had to settle for a single goal edge at the break.

If Barcelona can hold on for the win at full time, it will be a return to winning ways for Flick, following the 1-1 draw at Rayo Vallecano prior to the September international break.

Flick won home and away against Valencia in his debut campaign in charge including a 7-1 victory at home to Los Che with Lope scoring twice.

On the back of a hectic international break, Flick is expected to rotate his options after half time, with some serious firepower on the Barcelona bench.

Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha were both left on the bench at the start by Flick and the duo should be introduced at some point late on.

Lewandowski is keen to show his level for Barcelona after retuning from injury during the international break with Poland.

Images via Getty Images/One Football