Barcelona have officially booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals after an impressive 4-1 aggregate victory over Benfica, sealing the win with a commanding second-leg performance at the Estadi Olímpic.
The Catalan giants entered the game with a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg, thanks to a goal from Raphinha. They wasted no time in extending their advantage as the Brazilian forward once again proved decisive, finding the back of the net in the 11th minute after a brilliant assist from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
However, Benfica responded almost immediately, with veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi heading home just two minutes later to level the score on the night and reignite hopes for the Portuguese side.
Barcelona remained unfazed and quickly regained control. Their young star, Lamine Yamal, produced a moment of brilliance in the 27th minute, dancing past two defenders before curling a stunning shot into the far corner, restoring Barcelona’s lead and electrifying the home crowd.
The hosts continued their dominance, and just before halftime, Raphinha bagged his second goal of the match. Alejandro Balde sprinted down the left flank, delivering a precise low cross that Raphinha tucked away. Initially ruled offside, VAR intervened and overturned the decision, confirming Barcelona’s third goal of the night and effectively putting the tie beyond reach.
With a comfortable 3-1 lead on the night and 4-1 on aggregate, Barcelona controlled the tempo in the second half, limiting Benfica’s attacking threats and managing the game professionally. Despite a few late efforts from the visitors, the Spanish side stood firm, securing their progression to the last eight of the competition.
Barcelona will now shift their focus to the quarter-finals, where they will face either Lille or Borussia Dortmund, who are set to battle it out in their second leg on Wednesday.
Fans and pundits alike have hailed Lamine Yamal’s dazzling display, with the 17-year-old continuing to cement his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young stars.