A Barça party at Johan Cruyff Stadium
"Go out and enjoy." And FC Barcelona's women's team did just that on the Johan Cruyff Stadium pitch.
The European champions: Sandra Paños, Cata Coll, Gemma Font, Laia Codina, Mapi, Melanie, Torrejón, Leila, Pereira, Crnogorčević, Jana, Losada, Hamraoui, Alexia, Patri, Aitana, Hermoso, Mariona, Graham, Oshoala, Andrea Falcon, Martens and Bruna, presented the league and Champions League trophies to the 855 euphoric spectators before the match.
And what a match! Barça's 8-0 win over Athletic Club was another exhibition, and their 27th consecutive league victory.
Coach Lluís Cortés had some words of gratitude too. "I want to thank this magnificent group of players and the staff who dedicate many hours of work," he told the crowd. "Thanks also to the club for their commitment to women's football."
Vicky Losada also encouraged the fans with her speech: "Two years ago we fought to win the cup, but today we already have it here! I want to thank the club and all the players who have fought for this success. Also to thank the president. This is for all the girls who can dream of being footballers, defending Barça colours and being champions." The noise from the spectators was drowned out by the sound of fireworks.
Enthusiasm
The enthusiasm grew when the players paid their own tribute at the stadium. As the fans emptied the stadium, the Barça Women's squad refused to leave. Photos and songs followed one another in a celebration that will forever be etched in their memories.