Barcelona have kicked off the post Lionel Messi era with a morale boosting 4-2 win over Real Sociedad.
La Blaugrana were in need of a positive start to the 2021/22 La Liga campaign against La Real but they were force to survive a few scares at the Camp Nou.
Gerard Pique – fresh from agreeing to take a major salary reduction in Catalonia – nodded them in front from Memphis Depay’s cross before Martin Braithwaite doubled their advantage before the break.
Pique takes a pay cut to help his club, heads in their first goal of the season, and then kisses the badge in celebration! 👏
A Barcelona legend 🔵🔴 pic.twitter.com/k3jafCXXxx
— Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) August 15, 2021
Ronald Koeman’s side looked to ease away from their rivals after the restart as Braithwaite grabbed his second of the night to give the hosts a three goal lead.
Braithwaite gets his second and Barcelona are looking dominant! 🔵🔴
The Camp Nou's new superstar? 😉 pic.twitter.com/X1vWPO7EUU
— Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) August 15, 2021
But, with the home side’s confidence still brittle going into the season, La Real hit back via Julen Lobete’s first ever top flight goal and Mikel Oyarzabal’s stunning free kick.
OH MY WORD…what a free kick from Mikel Oyarzabal! 😱
From 3-0 down, Real Sociedad now only trail Barcelona 3-2 👀 pic.twitter.com/B12Y4BeXxJ
— Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) August 15, 2021
However, with the home side just looking to get over the line late on, Sergi Roberto arrived on cue to turn home Braithwaite’s cross from close range.
Images via Getty Images
