Livakovic Makes Winning Barcelona Debut as Raphinha Hits Sevilla Hat-Trick
Dominik Livakovic marked his first competitive Barcelona appearance with a win at Sevilla as the league leaders maintained their flawless opening to the La Liga season, while Raphinha’s hat-trick supplied the decisive attacking quality in Andalusia.
The 31-year-old Croatia international was given the start by Hansi Flick in a selection that drew attention before kick-off. Wojciech Szczesny had previously appeared to be Barcelona’s deputy goalkeeper behind Joan Garcia, but Flick’s decision to use Livakovic was described afterwards as a match-specific tactical call rather than a revision of the established order.
Livakovic helped Barcelona negotiate a difficult contest against a resilient Sevilla side, with the visitors needing to work especially hard after half-time to protect their advantage and take all three points.
“It is a perfect start to the season and we need to keep going in this way,” Livakovic said after making his debut in Barcelona colours.
Raphinha receives goalkeeper’s praise
Raphinha was Barcelona’s standout performer in front of goal, completing a treble and earning particular praise from his new goalkeeper. Livakovic noted the Brazilian captain’s wider contribution as well as his finishing.
“Congratulations to Raphinha for his hat-trick. Incredible,” he said.
The result kept Barcelona at the summit of La Liga and extended the momentum from their opening fixtures, with Flick’s side again finding a route through a demanding opponent away from home.
Olmo helps Livakovic settle
Livakovic said his integration has been aided by Dani Olmo, his former Dinamo Zagreb team-mate. The pair played together in Croatia six or seven years ago before continuing their careers elsewhere in Europe.
“Dani Olmo has been with me from the first day,” Livakovic said. “We played together at Dinamo Zagreb six or seven years ago. It has been easy because the players are young and it feels like a family. Adapting has been very easy here.”
He also highlighted the welcome from Barcelona’s other goalkeepers and the coaching staff, despite the competition for a place in Flick’s side.
“The goalkeeping coach, Joan and Tek are fantastic people,” Livakovic added. “Tek spoke to me a lot today, as did the coach. They made the job easier for me.”
Barcelona now have added experience in a position that had offered less depth in previous campaigns. Livakovic’s international pedigree with Croatia gives Flick another senior option alongside Szczesny, while Garcia remains the goalkeeper regarded as the first choice. The competition means both veterans may have limited openings, but their presence raises the standard around the young starter.
