Raphinha scored a brilliant hat-trick to lead FC Barcelona to a convincing 5–2 victory over Sevilla FC on Sunday, restoring their four-point advantage at the top of La Liga.
After Real Madrid reduced the gap on Saturday with a win over Elche CF, Barcelona responded strongly with a dominant performance at the Camp Nou.
Dani Olmo and João Cancelo also found the net for coach Hansi Flick’s side, who now turn their attention to a crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Newcastle United on Wednesday.
Barcelona raced into an early lead after two penalties converted by Raphinha, before Olmo added a third before halftime. Sevilla managed to pull one back through Juanlu Sánchez’s assist to Chidera Ejuke.
Raphinha completed his hat-trick early in the second half with a deflected effort, while Cancelo capped an impressive display with another goal. Sevilla grabbed a late consolation through Djibril Sow in stoppage time.
The match also saw Gavi make his long-awaited return from a serious knee injury, coming on in the final minutes of the game.