Thanks to a brilliant performance from Raphinha, Barça put on a show at Elche in their first La Liga match.
Reigning the champions FC Barcelona crushed Elche (5-0). Raphinha was involved in three of the Valencia goals.
Exempt from the first matchday due to the World Cup competition, Barcelona’s return to action was delayed due to the transfer window. Julian Alvarez, booed by his own supporter, may never arrive, and Alejandro Balde is on his way out and was left out of the team squad this Sunday. But the Valencia club didn’t let it distract them and made up for lost time with a comfortable 5-0 win away to Elche.
Raphinha, the new team captain appointed by Hansi Flick, was one of the key players in the match, scoring two goals within (14 and 67 minutes) and also providing an assist for Karim Adeyemi (45 minutes), who was making his debut in the Blaugrana shirt. The former Rennes player led the way by winning and converting a penalty goal. With this momentum on track, Barça then cruised to winner.
Playing in the playmaker role, Fermin Lopez had a superb match, scoring goals within (71, 79 minute) and, more importantly, constantly creating space and chances. Anthony Gordon, who came on in the 65th minute to replace a disappointing Lamine Yamal, made a successful debut, providing two assists during the game. The former Newcastle midfielder knows full well that his acceptance by the Barcelona dressing room depends on such contributions.
Unbeaten in Elche since the year of 1974, the reigning champions were nonetheless caught off guard early on by the home side’s skill and game plan. But the Valencia ‘ high press thwarted Elche’s efforts during match, who increasingly lost possession in dangerous situations. Barça team dominated the match and perfectly exploited the gaps behind Elche’s defense. The only downside was Gavi’s tearful exit due to his injury.
