Yamal targets Mbappe as Torres bursts under Flick’s command: Barcelona’s 2-1 climb against Elche
2 November 2025
Match recap
Barcelona wrapped up the first half of their La Liga clash with Elche on Sunday evening, leading 2-1.
Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the ninth minute, followed by Ferran Torres in the 11th.
Opta notes show Yamal has 17 goals in 80 league appearances to date.
Only Kylian Mbappe (23 goals) had more before turning 19 in Europe’s top five leagues in the 21st century.
Torres reached his 50th Barça goal across all competitions in 170 appearances, with 25 under Xavi and 25 under Flick.
Lineups, injuries and team news
German coach Hans Flick named the team for the Elche match at Montjuïc, with Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski returning to the squad but starting on the bench after periods of injury.
The attackers were led by Yamal, Rashford, and Torres, continuing from the Clasico approach that saw Real Madrid edge Barça 2-1 in the previous meeting.
Barça sat third in La Liga with 22 points, eight behind leaders Real Madrid.
Flick spoke at length about the squad’s state: Yamal is feeling some discomfort but is improving daily; he chose not to dwell on the Clasico loss.
AS reported that Flick addressed injuries, returns, and the club’s young talents in the pre-match conference at Montjuïc.
“Elche is a team I like; they play a cohesive system and press well. We must stick to our plan and press them. The last two training sessions were very good, and we welcomed Olmo and Lewandowski back, even if Pedri remains out.”
On Yamal: “We talk to him honestly; he’s fine, sometimes has some discomfort, but he works hard and is progressing.”
On Pedri’s injury: “We were surprised by the issue; after Madrid he had fatigue, but tests showed an injury. We must accept it and move forward; he’s a key player who gives us control.”
November is underway, and Flick stressed the season remains long; the squad must stay focused and resilient.
Regarding Olmo and Lewandowski’s potential Champions League involvement, Flick noted Garcia is training well but there is no rush to decide; plans will be made as the schedule allows.
On nurturing Yamal, Flick added that the club will protect him while allowing room to grow; the youngster can play multiple roles and his touch remains the game’s spark.
Concerning Elche’s former Barça keeper, Flick said Barça must show as a unit and respect Elche’s level; the match will be tough, with both teams eager to impress.
Finally, Flick commented that talking about the Clasico is behind them, and the focus should be on the Elche game and moving forward.
La Liga announced Miguel Cisma as the referee for Barça vs Elche, with Pablo González assisting via VAR, as Barça aim to rebound from the Clasico setback.
Barça’s coaches and players know they must be at their best to reclaim momentum and keep climbing the table.
Caption: Barça vs Elche at Montjuïc showcased a blend of youth promise and veteran leadership as Barcelona pressed toward a crucial victory.
