La Liga
Raphinha's hat‑trick fuels Barcelona's perfect run, says Flick
Barcelona extended their flawless start to the campaign as Raphinha delivered a second consecutive hat‑trick in a 3‑1 victory at Sevilla, keeping the Catalan side unbeaten in eight matches across all competitions and seven in La Liga. The win at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium also preserved their perfect record ahead of the first international break.
Hat‑trick underlines Brazilian's rise
Raphinha has reached twelve league goals after just seven matches. Team‑mate Fermin López said Raphinha is surprising because he had never played as a No.9. He added that the Brazilian is very good and can adapt to any attacking position, putting the ball in the net when given.
Flick's pressing system thrives
Hansi Flick has highlighted Raphinha’s move to the centre‑forward role as one of his most interesting tactical developments. The Brazilian does not act as a traditional target man; his movement, pressing and willingness to attack space let the other forwards interchange. In the penalty area, everything he touches appears to turn into gold for Barça.
Fermin López praised the collective work that kept Barça’s perfect start intact. He said the objective was to enter the international break as leaders with a flawless record and that the team is happy with the pressing work. According to him, the coach asks the side to press immediately after losing possession, and everyone goes together.
The Sevilla win also marked López’s return to the Spain squad after missing the World Cup through injury. He expressed joy at being back, noting how hard it was not to go to the tournament. He added that a strong start to the season has helped his national team recall.
Barcelona have begun the campaign with eight consecutive victories in all competitions and seven wins in La Liga. The 3‑1 triumph at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium preserved their unbeaten run ahead of the first international break. The match took place at the Ramon Sanchez‑Pizjuan stadium, named after the former player and coach Ramon Sanchez. The result reinforces the club’s aim to lead the league heading into the next phase.