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Barcelona reaffirmed their position atop La Liga with a dominant 5-2 victory over Sevilla at Camp Nou on Sunday, a performance highlighted by a hat-trick from Raphinha. The win extends Barcelona’s lead over Real Madrid to four points in the league standings.
The match unfolded against the backdrop of a club election day, with socios casting their votes for the next president. Despite the off-field distractions, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona side delivered a convincing display, seemingly a dress rehearsal for their upcoming Champions League round of 16 second leg against Newcastle United. Flick opted for rotation, resting key players like Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, and Ronald Araujo. Sevilla, under the guidance of assistant coach Javi Martinez – with head coach Matias Almeyda still suspended – featured former Barcelona player Alexis Sanchez in support of Akor Adams, but struggled to contain Barcelona’s relentless pressure.
Barça Breaks Through Early
The breakthrough came in the 7th minute when Joao Cancelo, after a clever combination with Raphinha, was brought down by Djibril Sow inside the penalty area. After VAR review, a penalty was awarded, which Raphinha calmly converted with a Panenka, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way (1-0, 9th minute). Just ten minutes later, another penalty was awarded to Barcelona following VAR intervention. Cancelo, driving into the box, feigned a shot before being fouled by Juanlu Sanchez, who inadvertently handled the ball. Raphinha stepped up again and doubled Barcelona’s advantage (2-0, 21st minute).
Dani Olmo further extended Barcelona’s lead in the 38th minute, firing a precise shot into the net after a deflected cross from Bardhji (3-0). Sevilla managed to pull one back just before halftime, with Oso scoring a well-taken goal after a quality cross from Juanlu Sanchez (3-1, 45+2 minutes).
Raphinha Completes Hat-Trick, Gavi Returns
Early in the second half, Flick substituted Pedri with Fermin Lopez, who immediately impacted the game by unlocking Sevilla’s midfield and setting up Raphinha for his third goal. Raphinha cut inside and fired a left-footed shot that was deflected past the goalkeeper (4-1, 51st minute). This marked Raphinha’s first hat-trick since October 2024, during a Champions League match against Bayern Munich. Cancelo, a constant threat on the left flank, capped off his impressive performance with a fifth goal for Barcelona, curling a shot into the net after a driving run (5-1, 60th minute).
With the game firmly in hand, Barcelona controlled possession, and goalkeeper Joan Garcia made a couple of key saves to deny Ejuke (67th minute) and Vargas (72nd minute). Robert Lewandowski was unable to find the back of the net, failing to convert two opportunities. Though, the biggest cheer of the day was reserved for Gavi, who made his long-awaited return from injury, entering the game as a substitute in the closing stages. Sevilla did manage a late consolation goal, with Sow heading home from a cross by Oso (5-2, 90+2 minutes), but it was too little, too late.
The victory not only strengthens Barcelona’s position in La Liga but likewise provides a positive momentum heading into their crucial Champions League clash against Newcastle. The performance showcased Barcelona’s attacking prowess and tactical flexibility, even with a rotated squad. For Sevilla, the defeat highlights their ongoing struggles and the need for improvement as they look to climb the league table.
Raphinha’s performance was particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his growing importance to the Barcelona attack. His ability to score from both open play and the penalty spot makes him a valuable asset for Flick’s side. The return of Gavi is also a significant boost, adding another dimension to Barcelona’s midfield options.
Barcelona’s next challenge is the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Newcastle United on Wednesday. Sevilla will look to bounce back when they face Girona in their next La Liga fixture.
Archysport will have full coverage of Barcelona’s Champions League match against Newcastle, including pre-match analysis, live updates, and post-match reaction.
