Barcelona Smash Records in Seven Goal Demolition

A Historic Start

Barcelona are rewriting the history books. A massive 7-2 win over Racing Santander gave them seven straight victories to start the season. It is the first time in club history that Barcelona have managed this feat.

The team has already scored 28 goals in their first six league matches under Hansi Flick. Only the Sevilla team of 1940 to 1941 scored more in that opening span with 32. Barcelona also have a goal differential of plus 22. Only one other team in league history started with six straight wins and a better goal differential. That was Real Madrid in 1987 to 1988, with a differential of plus 24.

Raphinha Leads the Charge

Raphinha was the star of the show. The Brazilian forward scored a hat trick, including two penalties. He is flourishing in his new role as a central striker.

Raphinha now has nine goals in his first six LaLiga matches. That is the highest tally by any league player in that span since Lionel Messi scored nine for Barcelona in the 2017 to 2018 season.

"I'm happy with the goals and the win, that's the most important thing," Raphinha told DAZN.

Goals From All Angles

The goals came from everywhere on Wednesday. Defender João Cancelo opened the scoring with a spectacular 25 yard strike. He also forced an own goal when another long range effort deflected off Asier Villalibre.

Lamine Yamal had a busy night. He had a goal disallowed for offside, missed a penalty, and hit the post before finally scoring late in the game. Gabriel Jesus also got on the scoresheet, netting off the bench to score in consecutive appearances for his new club.

What it means for the next game

Celta Vigo vs Racing Santander (LaLiga, Sat, 19 Sep): Celta Vigo win 52%, draw 24%, Racing Santander win 24%; expected goals 1.80 to 1.16. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

Sevilla vs Barcelona (LaLiga, Sat, 19 Sep): Sevilla win 10%, draw 16%, Barcelona win 74%; expected goals 0.91 to 2.65. Our safest pick: Over 2.5 goals.