Benfica 4-5 Barcelona: Incredible Comeback in Champions League Thriller

Barcelona produced one of the most dramatic comebacks in Champions League history, defeating Benfica 5-4 in a pulsating encounter in Lisbon. Raphinha’s 96th-minute goal sealed the victory for the Catalans, who overcame a Vangelis Pavlidis hat-trick and their own defensive calamities to secure all three points.

First Half: Benfica Stuns Barcelona

The match began in electrifying fashion as Benfica stunned Barcelona with a goal in the second minute. Vangelis Pavlidis capitalized on Alvaro Carreras’ precise cross to slot home, leaving the visitors shell-shocked.

Robert Lewandowski briefly brought Barcelona level with an ice-cold penalty after VAR intervened on a foul against Alejandro Balde. However, Szczesny’s poor decisions in goal handed Pavlidis two more goals, including one from the penalty spot, to complete his hat-trick within the opening 30 minutes.

Benfica’s high pressing and direct approach wreaked havoc on Barcelona’s high defensive line. By halftime, the hosts held a commanding 3-1 lead, leaving Hansi Flick with major decisions to make.

Second Half: Barcelona’s Resilience

Barcelona came out determined in the second half and found a lifeline when Raphinha’s header, aided by a bizarre deflection off the Benfica goalkeeper, reduced the deficit. However, Ronald Araujo’s own goal shortly after restored Benfica’s two-goal cushion, putting the home side firmly back in control.

Despite the setback, Barcelona refused to back down. Lewandowski scored his second penalty of the night, and Eric Garcia’s late header brought the scoreline to 4-4. The Catalans continued to press in the dying moments, and Raphinha delivered the decisive blow with a composed finish on the counterattack in the 96th minute.

Benfica’s players and fans were left furious after the referee failed to award a penalty for a push on Leandro Barreiro in the build-up to Raphinha’s winner.

Key Talking Points

• Raphinha’s Heroics: Raphinha’s decisive contributions saved Barcelona from what could have been an embarrassing defeat. His goal and relentless energy underscored his importance to the team this season.
• Defensive Struggles: Barcelona’s high line and Szczesny’s mistakes were exploited by Benfica’s quick transitions. Szczesny’s performance raised questions about his place in the team.
• Benfica’s Unlucky Night: Despite their dominance in the first half and Pavlidis’ brilliance, Benfica were left empty-handed due to Barcelona’s persistence and controversial refereeing decisions.