Raphinha Hat-Trick Fires Barcelona to Sevilla Comeback Win

Barcelona extended their flawless La Liga start with a 3-1 win at Sevilla, overturning Youssouf Fofana’s early opener through a Raphinha hat-trick. The result gave Hansi Flick’s side a seventh successive league victory and sent them into the international break three points clear at the top.

Raphinha leads Barcelona’s response

Sevilla struck first at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan when Fofana scored in the 19th minute, exposing a hesitant opening spell from the visitors. Barcelona’s answer arrived quickly, however, as Andreas Christensen picked out Raphinha three minutes later for the equaliser.

Raphinha, now operating centrally following the summer departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, took charge after half-time. Lamine Yamal set up the Brazilian for both of his further goals, completing a second hat-trick in the space of 72 hours.

• Sevilla led through Youssouf Fofana in the 19th minute.
• Raphinha levelled the match three minutes later from Christensen’s pass.
• Lamine Yamal supplied two assists for Raphinha after the interval.
• Raphinha has reached 14 goals across all competitions this season.

Livakovic makes his debut

Dominik Livakovic was handed a surprise Barcelona debut in goal, with Flick selecting him ahead of Wojciech Szczesny despite earlier indications that the Polish goalkeeper was the leading alternative.

Livakovic delivered a secure display, while Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia helped Barcelona restrict Sevilla’s opportunities after the home side’s early breakthrough.

Flick said the choice was based on instinct rather than any loss of confidence in Szczesny. He explained that selection decisions are not always produced by detailed analysis, and that his feeling before this match led him and his coaching staff towards Livakovic.

The Barcelona coach stressed that the decision applied only to Sevilla, adding that players can appear to be first choice in a position before circumstances lead to a different call for a particular fixture.

Selection calls remain Flick’s main challenge

Barcelona have collected 21 points from their opening seven league games, but Flick admitted that leaving established players out is currently the most difficult part of his job.

He pointed to Gavi, Xavi Espart, Jules Kounde and Szczesny among those who did not play in Seville. Flick said the depth of quality within his squad ought to be a positive, yet choosing a side is complicated because of his close relationship with the players affected.

The manager insisted that there was no personal element in the calls he makes, saying every decision is taken with the interests of the team in mind.

Fixtures after the international break

Barcelona return to domestic competition against Getafe on 10 October. Three days later, Flick’s team face Galatasaray in an important Champions League match.