Barcelona cruise past Valencia as Yamal stars and Raphinha joins Messi in record books
Lamine Yamal scored twice while Fermín López, Raphinha and Pedri also found the net as Barcelona swept aside Valencia 5-0 to maintain their perfect league record.
Barcelona produced another emphatic statement in their LaLiga title defence on Sunday, overwhelming Valencia 5-0 at Mestalla to move three points clear at the top of the table.
Hansi Flick’s side controlled the contest almost from the opening whistle, with Lamine Yamal opening the scoring inside six minutes after being released by Fermín López and finishing superbly from a tight angle.
Valencia struggled to cope with Barcelona’s movement and pressure, and Fermín doubled the advantage before half-time with a composed finish after being set up by Anthony Gordon.
The Catalan side showed no signs of easing off after the interval, extending their lead through Raphinha shortly after the restart when the Brazilian converted from close range following another incisive attacking move.
Barcelona continued to create chances at will, with Rodri going close before Pedri added the fourth in the closing stages after receiving a pass from Dani Olmo.
Yamal then completed his brace late on, putting the finishing touch to a comprehensive victory that underlined Barcelona’s attacking depth and efficiency.
The result gives the defending champions 12 points from four matches and leaves them three points ahead of Real Madrid, while their latest performance takes their league goal tally to 17.
Fermín was particularly influential, contributing a goal and two assists, while Yamal continued his excellent start with another two-goal display. The match also provided a first Barcelona appearance for Gabriel Jesus following his move from Arsenal, as Flick was able to introduce the forward during the latter stages of the rout.
Barcelona now turn their attention towards their Champions League campaign, with Feyenoord next on the schedule, while Valencia remain rooted near the bottom after another disappointing result.
