
Raphinha scores twice in Barcelona win after being benched for lateness
Raphinha scored twice as Barcelona beat Valencia 6-0 on Sunday. He came off the bench after being dropped for arriving late. Coach Hansi Flick left Raphinha out of the starting lineup because he was tardy to a pre-game session. Summer signing Roony Bardghji started in his place but Raphinha came on at halftime and scored two goals.
Raphinha's first goal came from Marcus Rahsford's cross, and he scored again with a half-volley. Robert Lewandowski, another substitute, added two more goals. This win moved Barcelona to second place in La Liga.
Flick has a history of disciplining players for lateness. Defender Jules Kounde was benched three times in the past for the same reason. Goalkeeper Inaki Pena was also dropped for being late to a team meeting.
Raphinha has been a key player for Barcelona, contributing to their success in the previous season. He will face Newcastle United in the Champions League next.