Raphinha and Lopez combine to dismantle Athletic Bilbao in Spanish Super Cup semi-finals

Barcelona ran riot against Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final as they produced an emphatic 5-0 win to barge into the final.

The reigning champions took no prisoners, with Ferran Torres opening the scoring in the 22nd minute with a composed finish.

Fermin Lopez fired home a brilliant left-footed strike following an equally excellent low cross from Raphinha.

Roony Bardghji, who started ahead of Lamine Yamal, seized his opportunity by tripling the lead as his right-footed strike squeezed under Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon.

Raphinha put the game beyond the Lions’ reach inside the first half itself after blasting home a stunning strike from an acute angle.

The Brazilian forward completed his brace to seal the game right after the break, pouncing on Simon’s error.

Athletic had a few opportunities but failed to capitalise, while they paid the price for their lacklustre defending against a relentless Barca attacking machine.

Raphinha proved once again that he is made for bigger occasions with his stunning display. He has bagged six goals and an assist since returning from a hamstring injury.

After delivering two game-altering assists in the win against Espanyol, Lopez continued his fine form with a goal and two assists.

Roony’s excellent display – a goal and two assists – is another major highlight in the win. He showed he is more than capable of being a back-up to Yamal.

Barca will face either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid in the final.