Lamine Yamal scored twice as Barcelona produced a dominant performance to sweep aside Valencia 5-0 at the Mestalla on Sunday, extending their perfect start to the La Liga season.
The victory moves the defending champions three points clear at the top of the table after title rivals Real Madrid suffered a 1-0 defeat at Real Betis earlier in the weekend.
Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, and Pedri were also on the scoresheet for Hansi Flick’s side, who remain the only team in Spain’s top flight to win all four of their opening league fixtures.
Dazzling display at Mestalla
Despite missing full team training on Saturday following a slight knock, Yamal showed no ill effects, opening the scoring in the sixth minute with a delicate lofted finish over Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski following a pass from Lopez.
Lopez turned scorer in the 22nd minute, finishing sharply after being set up by summer signing Anthony Gordon.
Raphinha extended the lead in the second half with his sixth goal of the campaign, tapping in from close range before Pedri combined with Dani Olmo to sweep home a fourth. Yamal capped off the victory in the closing minutes, collecting another Olmo pass to seal his double.
Debut and injury blow
The match also saw former Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus make his debut for Barcelona as a late substitute, nearly marking the occasion with a low effort that drifted just wide.
However, Barcelona’s victory was marred by a first-half injury to defender Eric Garcia, who was forced off following an accidental collision with team-mate Rodri—who was making his first start for the club following his arrival from Manchester City.
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