Hansi Flick's Barcelona won 2-1 against Valencia in their La Liga opening on Saturday, thanks to two goals from Robert Lewandowski. The German coach earned three points in his debut competitive encounter as Barcelona rallied from behind to defeat Ruben Baraja's strong Valencia team. Hugo Duro put the hosts ahead after 44 minutes, but veteran Polish striker Lewandowski equalized from close range before halftime and scored a penalty early in the second half. Barcelona began their pursuit of the championship with a stunning victory at Valencia's noisy Mestalla stadium. Lewandowski equalized in stoppage time, shooting from close range after Lamine Yamal deflected Alejandro Balde's cross back into danger.

Barcelona was without major players like Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, and Ronald Araujo. Champions Real Madrid, inspired by rising phenom Kylian Mbappe, are in play on Sunday against Real Mallorca.