Yamal Shines, Rashford Seals It as Barça Return to Form

Yamal, Ferran, and Rashford Lead the Charge

Barcelona got back to winning ways with a 3–1 triumph over Elche at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, easing the tension after the recent Clásico defeat. Goals from Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Marcus Rashford sealed three valuable points for Hansi Flick’s side, while Rafa Mir’s first-half strike was the only bright moment for the visitors.

The result marks Barça’s eighth LaLiga win of the campaign and brings them back within five points of leaders Real Madrid. With confidence restored, the Catalans now turn their focus to their midweek Champions League clash with Club Brugge before traveling to Vigo in pursuit of another victory.

Fast Start Silences the Doubters

Elche arrived with attacking intent, pressing high and playing fearlessly — but Barça were quick to punish that bravery. Just nine minutes in, Alejandro Balde surged down the left and fed Lamine Yamal, who cut inside and buried his shot past Iñaki Peña for the opener.

Two minutes later, the Blaugrana doubled their advantage. Fermín carried the ball to the byline and whipped in a perfect cross for Ferran Torres, who coolly guided it home to score his 50th goal in Barça colors.

Rafa Mir Responds Before Rashford Finishes the Job

Elche refused to fold. Their persistence paid off when Rafa Mir broke free on the counter and curled a stunning finish beyond Szczęsny to make it 2–1 before halftime. The forward even struck the bar shortly after the restart, testing Barcelona’s resilience.

But Rashford, calm and clinical, restored order. A sublime cross-field pass from Fermín found him on the left, and the Englishman powered a left-footed strike into the roof of the net to make it 3–1 — his second league goal in as many games.

A Win That Brings Relief and Belief

Flick used the closing stages to ease Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski back into action, as Barça comfortably managed the final minutes. The 3–1 win wasn’t flawless, but it was exactly what they needed — fast, clinical, and full of attacking promise.

For Barcelona, the message was clear: the fight for LaLiga isn’t over yet.