Barcelona secured a decisive 3-1 win over Benfica in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg, advancing to the quarter-finals with a 4-1 aggregate score. The clash at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys showcased Barça’s attacking flair and tactical discipline, outclassing a resilient Benfica side. Below, we break down the game’s pivotal moments, stats, and what lies ahead for both teams.
Table of Contents
Barcelona vs Benfica: Match Summary
Early Goals Set the Tone
- 11’ – Raphinha Opens the Scoring: Barcelona struck first as Raphinha finished a slick team move, slotting past Benfica’s keeper after a cutback from Lamine Yamal.
- 13’ – Otamendi Equalizes: Benfica responded instantly, with Nicolás Otamendi rising to head in a corner, momentarily silencing the home crowd.
Barça’s Youth and Experience Shine
- 27’ – Lamine Yamal’s Wonder Goal: The 16-year-old sensation dribbled past two defenders before curling a stunning strike into the top corner, restoring Barcelona’s lead.
- 42’ – Raphinha Seals the Win: The Brazilian capitalized on a rebound after Robert Lewandowski’s saved effort, securing his brace and Barça’s quarter-final berth.
Second Half Control
Benfica pushed for a lifeline but struggled against Barcelona’s organized defense. Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen made crucial saves, while Ronald Araújo and Jules Koundé neutralized threats from Rafa Silva and Ángel Di María.
Barcelona vs Benfica: Key Stats (SEO-Optimized Table)
| Statistic | Barcelona | Benfica |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 66% | 34% |
| Shots on Target | 6 | 1 |
| Total Shots | 10 | 6 |
| Corners | 2 | 0 |
| Fouls Committed | 4 | 2 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 2.8 | 0.7 |
Tactical Breakdown: Why Barcelona Dominated
- Midfield Mastery: Frenkie de Jong and Pedri dictated play, recycling possession and launching quick transitions.
- Wing Wizardry: Lamine Yamal and Raphinha exploited Benfica’s full-backs, combining pace and creativity to create chances.
- Defensive Solidity: Araújo and Koundé shut down counterattacks, while Ter Stegen’s composure ensured minimal threats.
Benfica’s Struggles
- Overreliance on Di María and Rafa Silva in attack.
- Midfield gaps left Otamendi and António Silva exposed to Barça’s relentless pressing.
SEO-Optimized FAQs (Targeting Featured Snippets)
Q: What was the aggregate score in Barcelona vs Benfica?
A: Barcelona won 4-1 on aggregate (3-1 in the second leg).
Q: Who scored for Barcelona vs Benfica?
A: Raphinha (2 goals) and Lamine Yamal scored for Barça; Nicolás Otamendi netted Benfica’s lone goal.
Q: How did Lamine Yamal perform in Barcelona vs Benfica?
A: The 16-year-old starred with a goal and assist, showcasing his dribbling and composure.
Q: What’s next for Barcelona in the Champions League?
A: Barça advances to the quarter-finals, with potential opponents including PSG, Bayern Munich, or Manchester City.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Barcelona:
- Awaits the UCL quarter-final draw on March 15.
- Focus shifts to La Liga, where they trail Real Madrid by 8 points.
Benfica:
- Exits Europe but remains in Primeira Liga’s title race, 4 points behind leaders Sporting CP.
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Final Analysis: Barcelona’s Resurgence Under Flick
Barcelona’s victory over Benfica highlighted their evolution under Hansi Flick. Blending youth (Yamal, Gavi) with experience (Lewandowski, De Jong), the Catalans are emerging as genuine UCL contenders. Benfica, while valiant, lacked the cutting edge to challenge Europe’s elite.
SEO Keywords Naturally Integrated:
- Barcelona vs Benfica
- Champions League quarter-finals
- Lamine Yamal goal
- Raphinha brace
- Benfica UCL exit
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