Barcelona 5-2 Rayo Vallecano: Raphinha and Yamal lead another attacking masterclass
Barcelona produced another explosive attacking display as braces from Raphinha and Lamine Yamal inspired a 5-2 comeback victory over Rayo Vallecano.
Barcelona maintained their perfect start to the LaLiga season with an impressive 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano at Camp Nou, recovering from an early setback to return to the top of the table.
Rayo made the brighter start and stunned the hosts after Sergio Camello finished in the 12th minute, but Barcelona needed only seven minutes to restore parity when Raphinha found the net.
The turnaround was completed just two minutes later as Lamine Yamal produced a superb finish to put Hansi Flick’s side ahead.
Barcelona continued to dictate proceedings after the interval and extended their advantage when Rayo defender Florian Lejeune turned the ball into his own net.
Camello refused to let the visitors disappear from the contest, heading home his second goal to reduce the deficit, but Barcelona quickly regained control.
Raphinha then completed his brace, with new signing Anthony Gordon providing the assist, before Yamal added his second late in the contest to put the result beyond doubt.
The victory means Barcelona have won all three of their opening league matches and have already established themselves as one of the division’s most dangerous attacking sides.
Raphinha’s double took his league tally to five goals, while Yamal continued his remarkable scoring development with another influential performance.
Gordon also enhanced his growing reputation by contributing another assist, giving him three in his first three league appearances.
Although conceding twice will give Flick defensive concerns to address, Barcelona’s response to going behind was particularly encouraging.
Rather than allowing Rayo’s early goal to disrupt their rhythm, the champions immediately increased the pressure and turned the contest around in a matter of minutes.
With Raphinha and Yamal already in outstanding form, Barcelona are showing early signs that their attacking firepower could be decisive in another title race.
