Barcelona bounce back with confident win over Elche

BARCELONA: Barcelona returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-1 victory over Elche on Sunday at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium, climbing to second place in LaLiga with 25 points — five behind leaders Real Madrid.

Determined to respond after last weekend’s El Clasico defeat, Barça struck early and capitalised on Elche’s defensive lapses. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the ninth minute when he intercepted a misplaced pass and finished superbly into the top corner. It marked the 18-year-old’s first league goal since August 31, offering a timely boost after weeks hampered by a groin issue.

Just two minutes later, Ferran Torres doubled the advantage, tapping home from close range after Fermin Lopez pressed high and delivered a sharp low cross following another Elche mistake.

Elche did manage to pull a goal back, but Barcelona’s control remained intact throughout and was strengthened as Marcus Rashford added a third late on to seal the points for the defending champions.

While Real Madrid remain in sight ahead of the title race, this victory brings momentum back to Barça as they continue their push to close the gap at the top.