Raphinha and Lopez score braces as Barcelona trounce Elche 5-0

What the report says

Barcelona opened their La Liga title defence with a convincing 5-0 away win over Elche at Martinez Valero Stadium on Sunday, according to Al Jazeera. The result gave the Spanish champions a strong start to their bid for a third straight league crown and came after Real Madrid had also won at the weekend, adding early pressure in the title race.

Raphinha and Fermin Lopez each scored twice for Barcelona, while Karim Adeyemi also netted on his debut. Anthony Gordon, another debutant, played a major role in the second half by setting up two goals. Raphinha opened the scoring from the penalty spot after being fouled in the box, and Barcelona controlled the match for long spells against an Elche side that struggled to contain the visitors’ pace and movement.

The report said coach Hansi Flick left several regular starters on the bench as they continue building match fitness after the World Cup, while teenage winger Lamine Yamal started but was not at his best. Despite some occasional gaps in Barcelona’s high defensive line, goalkeeper Joan Garcia preserved the clean sheet when needed. The performance suggested Barcelona remain well positioned in the early title race, with strong depth and productive newcomers already contributing.