Barcelona retake Liga lead with Athletic Bilbao victory

Barcelona have reclaimed the Liga summit after defeating Athletic Bilbao, restoring their position above Real Madrid after the early table changed hands. The result gives the Catalan side a perfect start after two matches and keeps them among the leading contenders in the opening phase of the season.

The postponed first-round fixture at Camp Nou ended 2-0. Raphinha put Barcelona ahead before half-time, while Fermin Lopez added the second late in the match. The victory came after Barcelona’s 5-0 away win at Elche in their previous league outing.

Barcelona, Real Madrid, Sevilla and Betis all have six points after two games. Barcelona lead that group because of their plus-seven goal difference, ahead of Real Madrid on plus four, Sevilla on plus three and Betis on plus two. The margin places Barcelona first despite the other three clubs also having won both of their matches.

Barcelona will next face Rayo Vallecano at home on Monday at 21:30. That fixture gives them the opportunity to extend their winning start while defending the narrow advantage created by their stronger goal difference.