Barcelona maintains top spot with big win over Rayo Vallecano

Raphinha and Lamine Yamal each scored two goals to lead Barcelona to a 5-2 victory over visitors Rayo Vallecano on Monday, continuing their ideal start to the season as they top the Spanish La Liga table.

Vallecano took the lead in the 12th minute through Sergio Camello, before Raphinha equalized in the 19th minute. Two minutes later, Yamal curled a precise left-footed shot into the top corner to give the defending champions the lead.

Rayo defender Florian Loeven scored an own goal in the 51st minute from an Anthony Gordon cross. The visitors reduced the deficit eight minutes later when Camello headed in from a corner kick.

However, the home side did not relent. Raphinha scored his fifth goal of the season in the 71st minute, capitalizing on a heel pass from Gordon, before Yamal sealed the win with a low shot in the 90th minute.

With today’s victory, Barcelona topped the standings with nine points, edging out Real Madrid on goal difference. Rayo Vallecano remained in 18th place without a win after three matches.