A stunning offensive display by Barcelona against Elche

Barcelona began its LaLiga title defense in dominant fashion with a 5-0 victory over Elche , as the Blaugrana side showcased its attacking firepower despite being without a traditional center forward.

Raphinha, who scored twice, Fermín López , who also netted a brace, and Karim Adeyemi were responsible for the rout delivered by Hansi Flick ’s team, which made a strong statement against an opponent that showed courage and ambition but lacked cutting edge in attack and struggled defensively.

Anselmi’s side, still a work in progress, stepped onto the pitch without fear and willing to challenge the champions for possession. With Barcelona missing several key players and Raphinha operating as a false No. 9, Elche opted for a high press and looked to attack through the wings.

However, Elche’s aggressive approach also left spaces that Barcelona exploited with quick counterattacks. Lamine Yamal delivered the first warning with a run behind the defense, but his effort sailed over the crossbar.

The opening goal came in the 13th minute. A mistake by Elche while playing out from the back allowed Fermín López to set up Raphinha, who was brought down inside the box by Chust as he prepared to shoot. The Brazilian stepped up and converted the penalty to put Barcelona ahead.

The goal did not change Elche’s approach, as the home side continued trying to build from the back and find spaces out wide. Barcelona, meanwhile, began to lose some accuracy and intensity, although Elche created little danger aside from a wayward effort from Ali Houary.

Gavi’s injury forced Flick into an early change before halftime, with Pedri coming on and bringing balance and control back to Barcelona’s midfield. Shortly after, another turnover in Elche’s half allowed Raphinha to assist Adeyemi, who scored his first LaLiga goal to extend Barcelona’s lead before the break.

Barcelona came out in the second half determined to put the match away. Raphinha had a golden opportunity after a brilliant assist from Lamine Yamal, but he failed to convert.

With Pedri dictating play, Flick’s team grew more comfortable as Elche began to run out of energy to maintain its pressing intensity. The champions controlled the match and found their third goal through Raphinha once again, as the Brazilian completed his brace after a pass from Gordon.

Elche tried to fight back and came close to scoring. Buonanotte hit the post, and shortly afterward Joan García denied him in a one-on-one situation with a superb save.

But Barcelona responded immediately. Gordon once again used his pace to get behind Elche’s defense and assisted Fermín López, who scored the 4-0 goal and capped off a brilliant performance with his second strike in the 79th minute.

With an attacking masterclass and a commanding display, Barcelona opened the season by sending a clear message: they are ready to defend their LaLiga crown.