Final Score: Barcelona 3-1 Benfica (Aggregate: 4-1)
Barcelona secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Benfica in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, ensuring their place in the quarterfinals with a 4-1 aggregate win. Raphinha led the charge with a brace, while Lamine Yamal added another goal for the Catalan giants. Nicolás Otamendi provided Benfica’s only goal, but the Portuguese side struggled to match Barcelona’s dominance.
Match Overview
•Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys
•Scorers:
•Barcelona: Raphinha (11’, 42’), Lamine Yamal (27’)
•Benfica: Nicolás Otamendi (13’)
•Aggregate Score: Barcelona 4-1 Benfica
Key Match Statistics
•Shots: Barcelona 20 – 8 Benfica
•Shots on Target: Barcelona 6 – 2 Benfica
•Possession: Barcelona 65% – 35% Benfica
•Passes: Barcelona 647 – 339 Benfica
•Pass Accuracy: Barcelona 89% – 78% Benfica
•Fouls Committed: Barcelona 4 – 8 Benfica
•Yellow Cards: Barcelona 0 – 1 Benfica
•Offsides: Barcelona 3 – 9 Benfica
•Corners: Barcelona 1 – 6 Benfica
Barcelona’s Tactical Superiority
Barcelona controlled the game from the start, using their superior possession and quick passing to dismantle Benfica’s defensive setup. Raphinha’s early strike in the 11th minute set the tone, but Otamendi quickly equalized for Benfica just two minutes later. However, Barcelona remained composed, and Lamine Yamal’s goal in the 27th minute restored their lead. Raphinha completed his brace before halftime, giving the Blaugrana a comfortable cushion.
In the second half, Barcelona maintained control, limiting Benfica’s attacking opportunities. Their disciplined defensive line and precise passing ensured that the Portuguese side could not mount a comeback. Benfica’s high number of offsides and fouls indicated their struggles to cope with Barcelona’s fluid attacking movements.
Head-to-Head Record
In their last four encounters, Barcelona now holds the advantage over Benfica:
•March 6, 2025: Benfica 0-1 Barcelona
•January 22, 2025: Benfica 4-5 Barcelona
•November 24, 2021: Barcelona 0-0 Benfica
•September 29, 2021: Benfica 3-0 Barcelona
What’s Next for Barcelona?
With this victory, Barcelona moves on to the quarterfinals, aiming to reclaim European glory. Their improved form under coach Xavi Hernández has reignited hopes of a deep Champions League run. Meanwhile, Benfica exits the competition, shifting focus back to domestic competitions.