FC Barcelona maintained their perfect start in LaLiga as forwards Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha both scored twice to help them thrash hosts Villarreal 5-1 in a highly entertaining clash on Sunday (Sep 22). Barca have won their first six games of the campaign for the first time since 2017-18, and only for the eighth time in total. Hansi Flick's side sit on 18 points, four clear of fierce rivals Real Madrid and five ahead of Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona beat Villarreal to maintain their 100% record in LaLiga, but Barca goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen suffered a "very serious injury" and was carried off on a stretcher.
Robert Lewandowski got two goals and missed a penalty, Raphinha grabbed a double and Pablo Torre also scored as Hansi Flick’s side made it six league wins from six.
However, Ter Stegen’s injury near the end of the first half was a worrying development for Barca. The 32-year-old Germany international and Barcelona captain was hurt when his right knee buckled as he landed while catching the ball and he was then carried off the pitch, holding his hands over his face as he left the field.
He was replaced by Inaki Pena and the back-up goalkeeper played a crucial part, making an excellent save to tip over an effort from former Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe when the score was 2-1.
"I think it's a very serious injury. When he lay on the ground, you could see it straight away," Barca coach Flick told after the match.
