Barcelona’s Triumph was on full display Tuesday evening as they clinched a 3-1 victory over Benfica in the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16. With a 1-0 win from the first leg in Lisbon, the Catalan side sealed a 4-1 aggregate to advance to the quarter-finals. Rafinha and Lamine Yamal led the charge with stunning goals, overcoming a brief equalizer from Benfica’s Otamendi. Here’s how the match unfolded.
A Fiery Opening
The game erupted early with Barcelona applying relentless pressure. Pedri’s shot in the 2nd minute was saved by Benfica’s Trubin, but Rafinha broke through in the 11th minute, converting a Lamine Yamal cross. Benfica hit back quickly, with Otamendi heading in a corner in the 13th minute to tie the score.
Regaining the Lead
Barcelona reclaimed dominance in the 27th minute when Lamine Yamal blasted a long-range shot past Trubin. Rafinha struck again in the 42nd minute after a Balde assist, with VAR overturning an offside call to secure a 3-1 halftime lead.
Second-Half Resilience
Benfica fought back in the second half, but an offside ruling canceled Orsense’s 50th-minute goal. Late chances from Ferran Torres and Benfica’s Renato fizzled out. Coach Flick rotated key players like Olmo and Lewandowski, ensuring Barcelona held firm.
Conclusion
With skill and determination, Barcelona celebrated their advancement, leaving Benfica behind and setting their sights on further Champions League success.
