Barcelona Thrashes Alaves 6-1 as Lamine Yamal Shines with a Brace

Barcelona bounced back in emphatic fashion following consecutive defeats to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and Real Madrid in La Liga, thrashing Alaves 6-1 at Camp Nou on Saturday. Lamine Yamal starred with a brace and an assist, helping the Catalan giants return to the top of the table.

Flick Praises Yamal and Squad Reaction

Hansi Flick addressed Yamal's performance and his substitution in the 70th minute, given that the teenager has started all 18 matches for club and country this season. "When you score two goals, it is easier to come off," Flick explained. "We spoke at halftime about managing his minutes. It is good for him to regain confidence in one-on-one situations, but it is also important that he accumulates fewer playing hours."

Raphinha opened the scoring before Fermin Lopez doubled the lead. Raphinha then added his second of the night and 17th of the season. Yamal netted his first just before halftime with a superb strike from the edge of the area. In the second half, he completed his brace with a delicate chip over the goalkeeper following a pass from Gabriel Jesus. Anthony Gordon scored the sixth, while Mariano Diaz grabbed a late consolation for the visitors.

Defensive Adjustments and Milestone

Flick was forced to improvise in defense due to injuries to four key players: Xavi Espart, Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, and Eric Garcia. Frenkie de Jong started as a center-back alongside Pau Cubarsi, while 20-year-old Brian Fariñas made his full debut at right-back, linking up effectively with Yamal on the flank.

The victory returned Barcelona to the summit of La Liga with 10 wins from 11 matches, while also marking Flick's 100th victory since taking charge in 2024. "I am very happy with that. One hundred victories is wonderful," the German manager said as the team looks ahead to upcoming fixtures against Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid.