- Barcelona 3-1 Elche : Yamal 9’, Torres 12’, Rashford 61’ – Mir 44’
Facing the risk of falling even further behind Real Madrid, Barcelona had no choice but to deliver against Elche at home. Eight points adrift before kickoff, the Catalans needed a win — and despite some spirited resistance, they got the job done without much danger.
Elche didn’t come to Catalonia to sit deep. They tried to build through possession, but their positive intent was quickly punished. Alejandro Baldé intercepted a pass, used his blistering pace to surge up the field, and set up Lamine Yamal, who beat Iñaki Peña to open the scoring. A few minutes later, Ferran Torres doubled the lead after another interception — his 50th goal for Barça, though he remains a player whose performances often divide opinion. Before halftime, Rafa Mir pulled one back for Elche, taking advantage of a hesitant Jules Koundé on the left side.
In the second half, Elche pushed higher, pressing aggressively to disrupt Barcelona’s buildup and block the midfield. The Catalans turned to their wide players and found the breakthrough again — this time through Marcus Rashford. Picked out by Fermín López, Rashford unleashed a thunderous strike under the crossbar to seal the 3–1 win.
Elche can take credit for their intent and style of play, but Barcelona’s efficiency ultimately made the difference. The Catalans now sit five points behind Real Madrid, who remain firmly in control at the top of La Liga.