FC Barcelona strengthened their grip on the top of La Liga after a commanding 5–2 victory over Sevilla FC at the Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday.
Brazilian winger Raphinha was the star of the night, netting a hat-trick to help the Catalan giants maintain a four-point advantage over rivals Real Madrid in the title race.
Raphinha opened the scoring in the ninth minute with a calm Panenka-style penalty before doubling Barcelona’s lead from the spot again in the 21st minute.
Dani Olmo added a third goal in the 38th minute after finishing off a well-worked move, putting the hosts firmly in control before halftime.
Sevilla briefly responded when Oso volleyed home in stoppage time of the first half to reduce the deficit.
Barcelona quickly restored their dominance after the restart as Raphinha completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute with a deflected effort following a strong run by Fermín López.
Defender João Cancelo then produced a brilliant solo effort on the hour mark to make it 5–1.
Sevilla managed a late consolation through Djibril Sow in stoppage time, but it did little to change the outcome of a match largely dominated by Barcelona.
The victory also marked Barcelona’s 12th consecutive home win since returning to the Camp Nou in November.
Meanwhile, Gavi made an emotional return from a long-term knee injury, coming on in the 82nd minute after nearly six months on the sidelines.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised the midfielder’s comeback, saying the club is delighted to have him back as the team prepares for upcoming challenges, including their Champions League clash with Newcastle United.
