Pedri found the net late on to save Barcelona after a disappointing showing in their home opener against lowly Cadiz. After 80 dismal minutes, Barca came alive, scoring twice in the final 10 to edge their well-organised opponents at the Olympic Stadium, stealing a 2-0 win for their first La Liga win of the campaign.
Pedri should have put Barca ahead after 15 minutes, but put his header into the grateful arms of the goalkeeper as he looked to find Robert Lewandowski. Teenager Lamine Yamal also came close, seeing his shot wonderfully tipped around the post by Jeremias Ledesma from a tight angle on what was the 16-year-old's first professional start. Ledesma was at it again shortly after, denying Jules Kounde from close range.
Barca continued to attack after the break, as Gavi rattled the bar with a header while Lewandowski, who was poor on the day, squandered a chance from close range. Ez Abde forced another save out of the keeper, too.
And finally, the goal came. Ilkay Gundogan found the killer pass — a deft chip over two flailing Cadiz legs, and Pedri provided the finish, sliding in to slot the ball between Ledesma's legs. Ferran Torres added a decisive second in stoppage-time, running through on goal after Lewandowski's flick-on.
GOAL rates Barcelona's players from the Olympic Stadium...