Barcelona Debuts in La Liga with an Exhibition and Rout Against Martín Anselmi's Elche

Barcelona launched their La Liga title defense with a resounding 5-0 thrashing of Elche, demonstrating their attacking might even without a recognized center forward. Raphinha, Adeyemi, and Fermín, who scored twice, were on the scoresheet for Hansi Flick's side against an Elche team that, while displaying an attractive approach, was ultimately too timid in attack and vulnerable in defense.

Martín Anselmi's Elche, still in development, started with positive intentions and without apparent fear against a Barcelona squad missing key players and with Raphinha playing as the central striker. Elche maintained possession and attempted to exploit Barcelona's flanks, but this boldness also created opportunities for Barcelona to counter-attack effectively.

Barcelona opened the scoring in the 13th minute after Fermín capitalized on an Elche error in ball circulation to assist Raphinha, who was fouled in the box. Raphinha converted the penalty, giving Barcelona the lead. Despite the goal, Elche continued to take risks in their build-up play. Barcelona, however, appeared imprecise in their passing and faded as the half progressed, though Elche's threat was minimal beyond a speculative shot from Ali Houary.

The introduction of Pedri for the injured Gavi just before halftime brought much-needed composure and order to Barcelona's game. A subsequent turnover in Elche's midfield allowed Raphinha to assist Adeyemi, who doubled Barcelona's lead just before the break. In the second half, Barcelona, with Pedri orchestrating, grew increasingly comfortable as Elche's pressing efforts waned. Barcelona added a third goal through Raphinha again, assisted by Gordon, who showed his speed on the counter. Elche hit the post through Buonanotte and had a one-on-one saved by Joan García, but Barcelona responded swiftly, with Gordon further extending their lead.