Barcelona begin title defence with stunning 5-0 tout of Elche

Barcelona made a flying start to their La Liga title defence, thrashing Elche 5-0 away from home in their opening match of the season.

Hansi Flick’s side imposed their attacking style from the outset and took the lead in the 14th minute when Raphinha converted from the penalty spot.

The visitors doubled their advantage late in the first half as new signing Karim Adeyemi marked his Barcelona debut with a goal, finishing a pass from Raphinha to send the champions into the break 2-0 ahead.

Barcelona turned up the pressure after the restart. Substitute Anthony Gordon quickly made an impact, creating opportunities for Raphinha and Fermin Lopez, who scored in quick succession to put the visitors 4-0 up.

Lopez completed the rout late in the game, scoring his second after being set up by young forward Xavi Esparte.

Raphinha and Lopez both finished with two goals, while Adeyemi scored on his debut. Gordon also played a key role after coming off the bench, providing assists for two of Barcelona’s second-half goals.

Barcelona’s win follows a victory for rivals Real Madrid in their opening fixture. Jose Mourinho’s side edged Espanyol 2-1 away from home with a late goal, meaning both Spanish giants began their league campaigns with wins.