Barcelona maintained their perfect start to the La Liga season with a 4-2 win over Levante, moving three points clear at the top of the table. The defending champions appeared to be in control after Lamine Yamal scored his second goal of the match from the penalty spot in the second half. However, Levante mounted a late comeback, with substitute Ivan Romero capitalizing on a defensive error and Roger Brugue scoring to reduce the deficit — Barcelona held on to win when substitute Karim Adeyemi scored in stoppage time, securing all three points.

Real Madrid escapes narrow victory

Real Madrid also claimed a narrow 3-2 win over Elche, with Carlos Espí scoring a stoppage-time goal to rescue the points, and the match was a tense affair, with Elche scoring twice in the second half to threaten Madrid’s lead. However, Mourinho turned to Espí, who repeated his heroics from the first match of the season, while Real Madrid now remain in second place, three points behind Barcelona.

Raphinha impresses new teammate Rodri

Barcelona’s new signing Rodri has praised the standout performances of captain Raphinha, who has scored eight goals and provided three assists in the early stages of the season. Rodri described Raphinha as a player who has surprised him with his form and physical capabilities, noting that the 30-year-old’s abilities are extraordinary, and Raphinha has already been named La Liga’s Player of the Month for August and remains a key figure for Hansi Flick’s side.

Elche vs. Real Madrid confirmed lineups

Real Madrid confirmed their starting lineup ahead of the match against Elche, with Courtois in goal and a defensive line including Trent, Konaté, Huijsen, and Cucurella. In midfield, Valverde and Tchouameni were selected, while Diomande, Güler, Vinicius, and Mbappé led the attack, but Elche’s lineup included Dituro in goal and a back four of Sangaré, Redondo, Chust, and Rubén Sánchez.

The match, which ended in a 3-2 victory for Real Madrid, was broadcast on DAZN La Liga in Spain and ESPN+ in the United States, Elche’s manager expressed frustration at the late goals conceded, stating they should have been more conservative with the draw. Real Madrid will now focus on their upcoming match against Atlético Madrid in the Madrid derby, with key players needing to remain fit and fresh.