Barcelona launched their La Liga title defence in emphatic fashion, thrashing Elche 5-0 at the Martínez Valero Stadium on Sunday.
Raphinha and Fermín López both scored twice, while Karim Adeyemi also found the net as Hansi Flick’s side made an impressive start to their bid for a third consecutive league title.
Barcelona took control after 14 minutes when Raphinha converted from the penalty spot after Victor Chust brought him down inside the area.
Elche threatened at times, but Barcelona’s defence held firm, with Eric García making several important interventions.
Gavi also impressed in midfield as the visitors gradually increased their dominance.
Raphinha then turned provider before the break, setting up Adeyemi to double Barcelona’s advantage.
Flick introduced Anthony Gordon in the second half, and the former Newcastle winger immediately made an impact.
Gordon supplied Raphinha for his second goal before creating another opportunity for López, who made it 4-0.
López completed his brace late in the match after being played through by youngster Xavi Espart, putting the finishing touch on a commanding Barcelona performance.
Although Barcelona’s high defensive line occasionally exposed them to danger, goalkeeper Joan García produced important saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Lamine Yamal, who featured for Spain during their successful World Cup campaign, started the match but was unable to make a major impact.
The emphatic victory sends an early warning to Real Madrid and the rest of La Liga that Barcelona remain determined to retain their crown.
