Barcelona delivered a dominant performance on Tuesday, securing a 3-1 victory over Benfica and a 4-1 aggregate win to advance to the Champions League quarter-finals.
The match saw outstanding contributions from Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, as the Catalan side controlled proceedings at the Olympic Stadium.
Barcelona took charge early, with Raphinha scoring twice and Yamal adding a spectacular goal. Despite Benfica’s brief response through Nicolas Otamendi, Barcelona maintained their momentum, producing moments of breathtaking attacking play. This win builds on their 1-0 first-leg triumph in Lisbon and underscores their ambitions for European glory.
Hansi Flick’s squad now awaits a quarter-final showdown against either Borussia Dortmund or Lille, as they aim to reclaim the Champions League title for the first time since 2015, the era of Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suárez. Confidence is high in the Barcelona camp, with the team currently unbeaten in 17 matches in 2025, reflecting their remarkable consistency.
Barcelona dedicated the victory to their late club doctor Carles Minarro, who passed away suddenly on Saturday. The players observed a moment of silence in his honor before kick-off, using the emotional weight of the occasion as motivation to deliver a stellar performance.
Yamal showcased his immense talent by netting his first goal in seven matches, cutting inside from the right flank and curling a stunning strike past Anatoliy Trubin into the far post. His brilliance was complemented by Raphinha, who bagged his second goal after Alejandro Balde’s dazzling solo run from deep inside Barcelona’s half.
Benfica struggled to cope with Barcelona’s intensity, and despite a disallowed goal from Fredrik Aursnes, they rarely posed a serious threat. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, who was instrumental in the first leg, provided stability once again, ensuring that Barcelona’s lead remained secure.
As Barcelona look ahead, their attention now shifts to La Liga, where they prepare for a crucial clash against Atlético Madrid. Meanwhile, Benfica must refocus on domestic competition, trailing Sporting Lisbon in the Portuguese title race. With this emphatic victory, Barcelona reaffirmed their status as serious contenders for European success, showcasing the depth and quality that make them one of the most formidable sides in world football.