Barcelona 3-1 Benfica (4-1 agg): Blaugrana Cruise into Champions League Quarter-Finals

Barcelona Secure Quarter-Final Spot with Comfortable Win

• Barcelona defeat Benfica 3-1 in the second leg
• Raphinha scores twice, Lamine Yamal stuns with a brilliant goal
• Blaugrana await either Lille or Borussia Dortmund in the next round

Barcelona booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals with a dominant 3-1 victory over Benfica, securing a 4-1 aggregate win. Raphinha’s brace and a stunning Lamine Yamal goal highlighted a first-half masterclass as Xavi’s side eased past their Portuguese opponents.

Match Summary: How Barcelona Dominated Benfica

Barcelona started with high intensity, pushing forward early. In the 10th minute, Yamal’s pinpoint cross found Raphinha, who calmly volleyed home to break the deadlock.

Benfica responded immediately, with Nicolás Otamendi heading past Wojciech Szczesny from a corner to level the score.

However, Yamal restored Barça’s lead with a moment of brilliance, cutting inside and curling a sensational strike into the far corner. Just before halftime, a rapid counter-attack led to Raphinha grabbing his second goal, giving Barcelona a commanding 3-1 advantage.

Benfica’s struggles continued after the break. Fredrik Aursnes briefly thought he had pulled one back, but his goal was ruled offside. Despite late pressure from the visitors, Barcelona controlled the game and comfortably saw out the victory.

3 Key Takeaways from Barcelona’s Victory

1. Raphinha’s Ballon d’Or Credentials Keep Growing

Hansi Flick recently backed Raphinha as a genuine Ballon d’Or contender, and the Brazilian continues to justify the hype.

With 11 goals and 4 assists in the Champions League this season, no player has been involved in more goals. If Barcelona go all the way, Raphinha could be in contention for football’s top individual prize, alongside stars like Mohamed Salah.

2. Lamine Yamal Makes Champions League History

Lamine Yamal continues to break records at just 17 years old. His goal and assist against Benfica made him the youngest player in Champions League history to achieve this feat in a single game.

The teenage sensation tormented Benfica’s defense all night, even causing them to resort to desperate tactics—including ripping his boots—to try and stop him.

3. Benfica’s Young Defenders Struggle Under Pressure

Benfica’s rising defensive stars, Antonio Silva and Tomas Araujo, had a tough night. Raphinha and Yamal exploited their inexperience, exposing gaps in the backline throughout the game.

With top European clubs scouting them, this performance may have raised concerns about their readiness for a big-money move this summer.

Can Barcelona Go All the Way?

Barcelona look like serious contenders for the Champions League title, but tougher challenges await. Can they maintain this form against stronger opposition in the next round? Share your thoughts in the comments!