SEVILLE, Spain : Raphinha scored a hat-trick as Barcelona maintained their perfect start to LaLiga with a 3-1 victory at Sevilla on Saturday, extending their winning run to seven matches.
Sevilla took the lead in the 18th minute when Youssouf Fofana headed Felix Correia’s cross past Barcelona goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, who was deputising for the injured Joan Garcia.
Barcelona responded four minutes later. Raphinha ran on to a pass from Andreas Christensen and beat goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos to level the score.
Sevilla threatened again before halftime, with Fofana’s backheel releasing Correia, but Rodri made a goal-saving tackle to prevent the hosts from restoring their lead.
Barcelona moved ahead in the 52nd minute when Raphinha headed in after Lamine Yamal’s footwork created the opportunity.
Raphinha completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute, running behind the Sevilla defence to convert another assist from Yamal. It was his 12th LaLiga goal in seven matches.
Barcelona controlled possession in the closing stages as Sevilla’s threat diminished, although Christensen’s second-half injury was a concern for coach Hansi Flick.
The result moved Barcelona provisionally six points clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who have a game in hand and face Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
Earlier on Saturday, Osasuna drew 1-1 with Rayo Vallecano, Athletic Club drew 0-0 with Alaves, while Celta Vigo recorded their first win of the season with a 5-0 victory over Racing Santander.
Barcelona’s seven wins from seven matches keep them at the top of LaLiga, with Real Madrid able to close the gap when they play their game in hand against Atletico.
