BARCELONA: Barcelona delivered a dominant performance on Tuesday, defeating Benfica 3-1 in the Champions League, securing a 4-1 aggregate victory and advancing to the quarter-finals. The match showcased standout performances from Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, who played pivotal roles in the team’s success.
Raphinha scored twice, while Yamal added a spectacular goal, as Barcelona controlled the game from the start, building on their 1-0 first-leg win in Lisbon. Despite Nicolas Otamendi equalizing shortly after Raphinha’s opener, Barcelona’s attacking prowess proved too much for Benfica, who were outplayed at the Olympic Stadium.
With this victory, Barcelona, under the guidance of Hansi Flick, will now face either Borussia Dortmund or Lille in the quarter-finals. The club is aiming to reclaim the Champions League title for the first time since 2015, when Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suarez led the team to glory.
“We are contenders to win everything,” Raphinha stated in an interview with Movistar, reflecting the team’s ambition to secure a potential treble this season. Barcelona’s impressive form continues, as they remain unbeaten in 17 matches in 2025.
Flick, however, emphasized the importance of staying grounded. “It’s positive that the players are confident and believe in their abilities, but my role is to keep them focused and composed,” he said.
The match held additional significance for Barcelona, as it was dedicated to the memory of club doctor Carles Minarro, who passed away suddenly on Saturday. The players observed a moment of silence in his honor before kick-off. “The loss of Carles motivated us even more to win this game,” Raphinha shared. Flick added, “Carles will always have a place with us, and this victory is for him as well.”
Barcelona took an early lead in the 11th minute when Yamal skillfully maneuvered past Florentino and set up Raphinha for an easy finish. Benfica responded quickly, with Otamendi heading in a corner to level the score. However, Barcelona’s relentless attack soon restored their lead.
Yamal, the 17-year-old prodigy, scored a stunning goal, cutting in from the right and curling a shot into the far corner. “His goal was incredible and highlights his exceptional talent,” Raphinha remarked. The Brazilian winger then added his second goal before halftime, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack initiated by Alejandro Balde.
Raphinha’s brace took his Champions League tally to 11 goals, making him the competition’s top scorer this season. His overall contribution has been vital, with 27 goals across all competitions since joining from Leeds United.
Pedri, Barcelona’s midfield maestro, praised the team’s attacking strength, saying, “We have explosive talent up front, and we need to make the most of it.”
Benfica, missing the injured Ángel Di María, struggled to challenge Barcelona’s dominance. A second-half goal by Fredrik Aursnes was disallowed for offside, and the Portuguese side rarely troubled Barcelona’s defense. Frenkie de Jong came close to adding a fourth goal for Barcelona, narrowly missing the target in a well-executed team move.
With their quarter-final spot secured, Barcelona now turn their attention to a crucial La Liga clash against Atlético Madrid on Sunday. Meanwhile, Benfica will focus on their domestic campaign, where they currently sit second in the Portuguese league.
Reflecting on the tie, Benfica coach Bruno Lage expressed disappointment, stating, “We’re left frustrated; we could have performed better in both matches.” Barcelona, on the other hand, continue their pursuit of European glory, fueled by a blend of youthful talent and seasoned experience.
