Barcelona vs Benfica Champions League: Magic Raphinha saves Barca 2025
Barcelona vs Benfica Champions League, Barcelona pulled off an incredible 5-4 comeback against Benfica in one of the most thrilling matches of the UEFA Champions League group stages. Raphinha’s last-minute brilliance capped off a chaotic night at the Estadio da Luz, sparing Wojciech Szczesny’s blushes after a shaky defensive performance. The Blaugrana’s victory keeps their Champions League campaign alive and showcases their fighting spirit under Hansi Flick.
Barcelona vs Benfica Champions League:Â
A Night of Drama in Lisbon
First Half: Chaos Unleashed
The match began at a blistering pace. Benfica stunned Barcelona within two minutes as Vangelis Pavlidis tapped in Alvaro Carreras’ precise cross. Barca responded quickly, with Robert Lewandowski equalizing from the penalty spot after Alejandro Balde was fouled in the box.
However, disaster struck for Barcelona when goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny misjudged a long ball, allowing Pavlidis to score his second into an empty net. Minutes later, Szczesny conceded a penalty for a reckless foul on Kerem Akturkoglu, and Pavlidis completed his hat trick to put Benfica ahead 3-1 before halftime.
Second Half: A Battle for Redemption
Barcelona fought back fiercely in the second half. Raphinha’s unconventional goal off a deflected clearance reduced the deficit to 3-2. But Ronald Araujo’s own goal moments later handed control back to Benfica, making it 4-2.
The Blaugrana refused to give up, with Lewandowski converting another penalty to make it 4-3. Substitutes Frenkie de Jong and Eric Garcia provided the spark Barcelona needed. Garcia headed home an equalizer in the 86th minute, setting up a grandstand finish.
In the dying moments, Raphinha sealed the win with a brilliant solo effort, cutting inside on his left foot to curl the ball into the net, leaving Benfica stunned.
¡Vamos! 💪 pic.twitter.com/QgA76yx3V5
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 22, 2025
Player Ratings and Performance Analysis
Goalkeeper and Defense
- Wojciech Szczesny (3/10): A night to forget for the Polish goalkeeper, who was directly at fault for two goals. A late save slightly redeemed his performance.
- Jules Kounde (5/10): Struggled defensively but contributed with dangerous crosses.
- Ronald Araujo (6/10): Reliable for most of the game but scored an unfortunate own goal.
- Pau Cubarsi (5/10): Ball-watching for Benfica’s opener cost Barca dearly.
- Alejandro Balde (6/10): Provided attacking intent and won a penalty but was partly responsible for defensive lapses.
Midfield
- Gavi (5/10): His frustration led to unnecessary fouls, and he struggled to impose himself.
- Marc Casado (5/10): Inconsistent in possession, leading to his substitution.
- Pedri (8/10): A bright spark, dictating play and providing a crucial assist.
Attack
- Lamine Yamal (7/10): Showed flashes of brilliance but lacked composure in key moments.
- Robert Lewandowski (7/10): Converted two penalties with ease and linked up play well.
- Raphinha (8/10): Scored a brace, including the match-winning goal, proving his class in decisive moments.
Substitutes and Manager
- Frenkie de Jong (7/10): Stabilized midfield and kept Barcelona on the front foot.
- Eric Garcia (9/10): Scored the equalizer and brought energy to the defense.
- Ferran Torres (7/10): Assisted the winner and injected pace into Barca’s attack.
- Hansi Flick (8/10): Tactical substitutions turned the game in Barcelona’s favor.
Key Moments of the Match
1. Szczesny’s Calamities
The goalkeeper’s errors put Barcelona under immense pressure. His misjudgment outside the box and rash tackle inside it gave Benfica the upper hand.
2. Pavlidis’ Hat Trick
Benfica’s forward exploited Barcelona’s defensive weaknesses to score a stunning first-half hat trick.
3. Raphinha’s Magic
The Brazilian’s bizarre deflected goal and brilliant last-minute strike made him the hero of the night.
Implications for Barcelona
1. Resilient Comeback Boosts Morale
This dramatic victory demonstrates Barcelona’s resilience and determination, key attributes for any Champions League contender.
2. Defensive Concerns
Despite the win, Barca’s defensive lapses must be addressed. Szczesny’s poor form and the backline’s lack of cohesion remain pressing issues.
3. Raphinha’s Influence
The winger’s performance highlights his importance in Hansi Flick’s system. His creativity and composure in the final third can be decisive in big matches.
Conclusion: Barcelona’s Fighting Spirit Shines in Lisbon
Barcelona’s 5-4 victory over Benfica is a testament to their attacking prowess and resilience under pressure. While defensive issues persist, the team’s ability to mount a comeback in such dramatic fashion highlights their character and determination.
With Raphinha stepping up as the hero and Lewandowski continuing to deliver, Barcelona remain a force to be reckoned with in the Champions League. As they address their defensive shortcomings, fans can expect more thrilling performances from the Catalan giants in their pursuit of European glory.
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 21, 2025
FAQs About Barcelona vs Benfica Champions League
1. What was the final score of the Barcelona vs Benfica match?
Barcelona defeated Benfica 5-4 in a thrilling Champions League group-stage clash.
2. Who scored for Barcelona?
Barcelona’s goals came from Robert Lewandowski (2), Raphinha (2), and Eric Garcia.
3. What were Wojciech Szczesny’s mistakes in the match?
Szczesny misjudged a long ball, allowing Pavlidis to score, and conceded a penalty with a rash challenge.
4. How did Raphinha perform in the match?
Raphinha scored two goals, including a stunning last-minute winner, and was instrumental in Barcelona’s victory.
5. What’s next for Barcelona in the Champions League?
Barcelona will look to build on this momentum as they aim to secure qualification to the knockout stages.
What did you think of Barcelona’s performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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