There was a lot of talk about who would get the first goal for Barcelona back at the renovated Spotify Camp Nou last night, especially given how the team were returning to the venue after close to three years.
In the end, it was none other than Robert Lewandowski who did the same, and to no surprise given how the veteran has a knack for finding the back of the net on big occasions.
In just the fourth minute of the game, the Polish star drove a low strike past Unai Simon at his near post, striking the ball with his left foot and opening the scoring.
A souvenir for the legend
Having scored the opening goal on the special occasion, Lewandowski ensured that his name is remembered in the history of the legendary stadium for years to come. Deservedly, he did take home the match ball.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona
Lewandowski was on the scoresheet against Athletic Club. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
While speaking to the media after the game, he proudly held the ball in his arm throughout the interaction and even revealed why he was taking home the souvenir from the night..
“I’m taking this ball home. It’s the first ball at the New Camp Nou. It’s special,” he told DAZN.
It is only poetic that Lewandowski scored the first goal last night, for he has been nothing short of sensational for Barcelona since signing from Bayern Munich at a time when the Catalans seemed down and out.
He has played a crucial role in helping the club get back on its feet and has even won multiple titles in Spain. Now already 37, there is fear that this could be his last season at the club.
The match-ball last night, symbolically, is a special memento of Barcelona history for the club legend to keep in his showcase for the decades to come as a souvenir from his legendary time with the Blaugrana.