Joe
Lisbon, Portugal – FC Barcelona took a significant step toward the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Benfica at the Estádio da Luz on Wednesday night. Despite playing with 10 men for over 70 minutes, the Catalan giants displayed defensive resilience and capitalized on a costly Benfica mistake to snatch a vital away win.
Barcelona started strongly, controlling possession and creating early chances through Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal. However, the match took a dramatic turn in the 22nd minute when young center-back Pau Cubarsí was shown a straight red card for a last-man foul on Vangelis Pavlidis, leaving Barça to play the remainder of the game a man down.
Head coach Hansi Flick quickly adjusted, bringing on Ronald Araújo to reinforce the defense, while Benfica ramped up their attacking efforts. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny was called into action multiple times, making crucial saves to keep the score level at halftime.
In the second half, Benfica continued to press, but Barcelona’s discipline held firm. Then, in the 61st minute, a wayward pass from Benfica defender António Silva fell to Raphinha, who made no mistake with a powerful finish into the bottom corner. The Brazilian winger, known for his clutch performances in Europe, delivered yet another decisive moment for his team.
Barcelona’s Defensive Masterclass
With the lead secured, Barcelona absorbed Benfica’s attacking onslaught in the final half-hour. Flick introduced fresh legs, including Gerard Martín and Marc Casadó, to shore up the defense. Benfica’s late push, which included a disallowed penalty appeal, was thwarted by a disciplined Barcelona backline and the outstanding Szczęsny, who made multiple key stops to preserve the clean sheet.
A Crucial Advantage for the Second Leg
The final whistle confirmed Barcelona’s impressive away victory, giving them a significant advantage heading into the second leg at the Montjuïc Stadium. Despite being reduced to 10 men early, Barça showcased their resilience, defensive solidity, and ability to capitalize on key moments.
With a one-goal cushion and home advantage in the return fixture, Flick’s side will be confident in their chances of progressing to the quarterfinals. However, Benfica, known for their fighting spirit, will be determined to mount a comeback when they travel to Spain next week.
Match Details:
Benfica: Trubin; Araújo (Dahl 57’), Silva, Otamendi, Carreras; Barreiro (Belotti 70’), Aursnes, Kökçü (Sanches 84’); Aktürkoglu, Pavlidis (Cabral 84’), Schjelderup (Rego 70’)
Goals: None
Barcelona: Szczęsny; Koundé, Cubarsí, Iñigo, Balde; De Jong (Casadó 79’), Pedri; Yamal (Ferran 56’), Olmo (Araujo 28’), Raphinha; Lewandowski (Martín 79’)
Goal: Raphinha (61’)
Red Card: Cubarsí (22’)
The two teams will meet again in Barcelona next week, where the Blaugrana will look to complete the job and book their place in the last eight of the Champions League.
