For the first time since 5 May 2007, Barcelona emerged victorious in league play at the Anoeta– and in what fashion. The Catalans quickly dug themselves a two goal hole, with Willian Jose and Juanmi scoring in the opening 35 minutes, before Paulinho drew one back just before the break. While Barcelona struggled immensely in the first half, they outclassed the hosts in the second with some stunning individual quality taking the spotlight, highlighted by Lionel Messi’s late free kick. But arguably Barcelona’s man of the match with two goals and an assist was Luis Suarez.
Ernesto Valverde changed things up a little bit, leaving Andres Iniesta on the bench, replacing him with Andre Gomes, with Paulinho also starting from the opening whistle.