Barcelona reclaim Liga lead with win over Rayo

Barcelona have regained first place in La Liga, keeping pace with Real Madrid after a convincing victory over Rayo Vallecano. The result gives Hans Dieter Flick’s side a perfect start to the campaign, with three wins from three matches and the same points total as their main rival.

The Catalans won 5-2 at Camp Nou, although Rayo struck first through Sergio Camello in the 12th minute after a defensive mistake by Jules Koundé. Barcelona responded quickly, with Raphinha equalising in the 19th minute before Lamine Yamal put the hosts ahead two minutes later.

Barcelona extended their advantage early in the second half when Gordon’s work led to an own goal by Lejeune. Rayo reduced the deficit through Camello’s second goal in the 59th minute, but the visitors could not maintain the pressure. Raphinha added another in the 71st minute, and Yamal completed his own double in stoppage time.

The win restored Barcelona’s position at the summit after Real Madrid had moved ahead with a 4-0 victory over Malaga. Rayo, with Senegal international Pathé Ciss involved, could not prevent Barcelona from maintaining their early perfect record and matching Madrid’s points total.