Barcelona launch LaLiga title defence with five-star Elche demolition

Fermin then added the fifth goal in the 79th minute, controlling the ball on the edge of the box, swivelling past his marker and driving inside before smashing an unstoppable shot beyond the helpless keeper.

Raphinha stars as Barcelona thump Elche to begin LaLiga title defence  ESPN

Aug 23 : Barcelona began their LaLiga title defence and bid for a third successive crown with a 5-0 victory at Elche on Sunday as Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scored twice each.Captain Raphinha set the champions on their way in the 14th minute, coolly tucking a penalty just inside the right post after he was brought down

The Italian champions needed just six minutes to break the deadlock when Hakan Calhanoglu blasted in from distance.

Inter Milan begin their Serie A title defence with a dominant 4-1 victory over promoted Monza. Read how the champions launched their campaign.