Barcelona thrash Elche... Flick: A brilliant five-goal performance

Barcelona began their pursuit of a third consecutive La Liga title with a comprehensive 5-0 victory over hosts Elche in the second round yesterday. Fielding a youthful lineup with numerous changes, coach Hansi Flick’s side displayed notable attacking efficiency, despite the absence of a traditional striker following the departure of Polish forward Robert Lewandowski. Captain Raphinha led the charge, scoring a brace (14th minute, a penalty, and 67th), and also created the third goal just before halftime with a decisive pass to new German signing Karim Adeyemi (45+3).

Spanish midfielder Fermín López returned to score another double (71st and 79th minutes). Summer arrival Anthony Gordon, who replaced young star Lamine Yamal in the second half, also left his mark by creating two goals within just four minutes (67th and 71st). However, this promising start was marred by the early exit of Spanish World Cup winner Gavi, who appeared to suffer an injury to his right knee—the same knee that underwent surgery in 2023 and 2025.

For his part, Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s head coach, expressed satisfaction after his team’s convincing win, praising the defensive solidity and attacking performance of his players. He stated, “We defended very well, and scoring five goals is great,” but also noted that Barcelona lost some possession in the first half and lacked control over the flow of the game.

Regarding Gavi’s injury, Flick confirmed that initial indicators are relatively positive, adding, “We have to wait and see. It’s a knee issue, but we believe it is less serious than we feared.” The club is awaiting medical test results to determine the nature of the injury and the duration of the player’s absence, if further rest is required.

Meanwhile, depleted Atletico Madrid snatched a late 2-2 draw against visitors Villarreal. Getafe defeated guests Racing Santander 1-0, with the lone goal scored by Turkish player Enes Ünal (81st minute). This marks Getafe’s first win in the domestic league this season, after they lost their opener 3-0 to Deportivo Alavés.