Raphinha’s message helps spark Yamal response

Barcelona captain Raphinha revealed that he gave Lamine Yamal a motivational lift during Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Feyenoord at Camp Nou.

Raphinha was in outstanding form for Hansi Flick’s side, scoring twice as Barcelona secured another convincing win. Yamal also got on the scoresheet, but his captain said the teenager needed encouragement to remain involved in the match.

“I know Lamine because he tends to withdraw from the game when things aren’t going well. I tried to encourage him and tell him he was going to score, so he wouldn’t leave the game,” Raphinha told Movistar.

“In the end, he managed to score, and I was very happy for him. He needed that goal. That’s how a winning team is made: when everyone is happy for each other.”

Yamal duly delivered, scoring from a free-kick before running to celebrate with Raphinha, who had already been substituted. The moment underlined the supportive atmosphere within a Barcelona team that has made a fast start to the season.

Barcelona aiming to sustain strong start

Raphinha said Barcelona must continue producing high-level performances while acknowledging that the long season will inevitably bring difficult periods.

“The truth is, we always have to show our fans near-perfect football. We’ve been playing very well from the start of the season. We could have scored [more] with the chances we had,” he said.

“In such a long season, there are many ups and downs. Starting the season like this gives us confidence. The idea is to keep it up and try to minimise the low points. To keep playing good matches is what we want.”

The Feyenoord victory gives Barcelona an ideal opening to their Champions League campaign. Their next match in the competition will be away to Galatasaray on October 13.