FC Barcelona Femení kicked off the defence of their UEFA Women's Champions League crown in emphatic fashion, defeating Paris FC 5-2 at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.

Fresh off receiving multiple high-profile Ballon d'Or nominations across various individual and team categories, the Catalan giants demonstrated exactly why they stand as the benchmark for elite women's football.

Golden Quality Responds to Early Setback

The evening began with a unexpected shock when Paris FC's Julie Viens struck in the fifth minute to give the visitors an early lead.

However, Barcelona's lineup quickly asserted control. Coach Pere Romeu (shortlisted for Women's Coach of the Year following Barça's sweep of four trophies) saw his tactical setup unlock the French side's defense.

Kerolin leveled the scoring in the 18th minute before teenage midfielder Clara Serrajordi put Barcelona ahead in the 28th minute. Serrajordi, who recently earned a nomination for the Women's Young Talent of the Year award, demonstrated composure to put the hosts in front.

Ballon d'Or Nominees Showclass Control

Barcelona's midfield and attacking contingent, packed with Ballon d'Or 30-player shortlist nominees, ran rampant through the middle of the match. Patri Guijarro controlled the central midfield alongside Clàudia Pina, while Esmee Brugts operated with threat down the flank.

In the 35th minute, Polish striker and 2025 Striker of the Year winner Ewa Pajor found the net to widen the lead to 3-1, assisted by Caroline Graham Hansen, who got her second assist of the night. Just before half-time, the Norwegian star even scored Barcelona's fourth goal, capitalizing on fine teamwork to complete a blistering four-goal first-half turnaround.

Pajor Doubles Up to Seal Milestone Win

In the second half, Pajor completed her brace in the 70th minute to make it 5-1 after a slick attacking combination. Paris FC pulled one goal back through Clara Mateo in the 73rd minute, but Women's Goalkeeper of the Year nominee Cata Coll remained in firm control between the posts to anchor Barça's victory.

The victory marked a major milestone for FC Barcelona, who were nominated for Women's Club of the Year after winning every trophy available last season. With seven player and staff nominees recognized on the international stage, Barça's campaign for back-to-back European crowns is off to a flying start.