Seville, Sep 20 (V7N)- Raphinha scored a hat-trick as Barcelona came from behind to beat Sevilla 3-1 on Saturday, maintaining their perfect start to the La Liga season with seven consecutive victories.
Sevilla took the lead in the 18th minute when Youssouf Fofana headed home a cross from Felix Correia. Barcelona responded quickly, with Raphinha equalizing four minutes later after receiving a pass from Andreas Christensen.
The hosts continued to cause problems during the opening half, while Barcelona also created opportunities. Sevilla goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos denied Lamine Yamal, and Rodri made an important defensive intervention to prevent another Sevilla chance.
Barcelona turned the match around after the break. Raphinha headed home a cross from Yamal in the 52nd minute to put the visitors ahead.
The Brazilian completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute after Yamal sent a pass through the Sevilla defense. Raphinha finished the move to make it 3-1 and took his league tally to 12 goals in seven appearances.
Barcelona controlled possession in the closing stages and created further opportunities, although Christensen's second-half injury was a concern for coach Hansi Flick.
The victory gave Barcelona 21 points from seven matches and moved them six points clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who have a game in hand before their meeting with Atletico Madrid.
Elsewhere, Osasuna drew 1-1 with Rayo Vallecano, Athletic Club and Alaves played out a goalless draw, while Celta Vigo recorded their first league win of the season with a 5-0 victory over Racing Santander.
END/SMA/AJ
