In their opening league match away to Elche, Barcelona began their title defense with a resounding 5-0 victory. Raphinha, who scored twice in the match, explained his celebration in a post-match interview.

Was the match easier than expected?

Whether it is easy or difficult depends on us. If we maintain the same intensity we showed today, the match will be easier to play. It is not because Elche are easy to break down—they have strong ball control—but because our form was excellent from the start.

Were you still able to keep up with the pace at the end of the match?

It was very hot. When one side dominates possession, the other struggles more. Elche are an excellent team, but the hot weather affected them greatly, and the final score doesn't fully reflect how the match unfolded.

Does the team lack a center-forward?

Leave that question to president Deco and the coach; we just do what the coach asks. I'm comfortable playing in any position.

After scoring your first goal, why did you celebrate by imitating Spider-Man shooting webs?

Photo by AS

That was for my son; he asked me to make that move. He loves Spider-Man.

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