Raphinha scored a brace as Barcelona smashed Benfica 3-1 to qualify for Champions League quarterfinal, MySportDab reports.
Barca secured their spot in the Champions League quarterfinals with a 3-1 victory over Benfica at Estadi OlÃmpic LluÃs Companys in Barcelona, completing a 4-1 aggregate win.
The match was marked by standout performances from 17-year-old Lamine Yamal and Brazilian winger Raphinha.
Full Match Report
Barcelona took the lead when Lamine Yamal delivered a precise assist to Raphinha, who calmly finished past Benfica’s goalkeeper in the 11th minute.
A goal in the 13th minute saw Benfica responded swiftly; Nicolás Otamendi capitalized on a corner kick, heading the ball into the net to level the score at 1-1.
Lamine Yamal restored Barcelona’s advantage with a remarkable goal, curling a powerful shot from the right side beyond the reach of the goalkeeper in the 27th minute.
Raphinha sealed the win, collecting a pass from Yamal and firing a low shot into the corner of the net, making it 3-1 in the 42nd minute.
The second half saw Benfica’s best chance nullified when Fredrik Aursnes had a goal disallowed for offside. Despite their efforts, Benfica couldn’t overcome the early deficit.
Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, praised the team’s resilience, especially given the emotional backdrop of the match following the recent passing of team doctor Carles Miñarro Garcia.
This victory showed individual brilliance of Yamal and Raphinha but also proved Barcelona’s tactical prowess and mental fortitude, propelling them into the Champions League quarterfinals.
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