- Barcelona fought back from a 4-3 deficit to win 5-4 against Benfica in a thrilling Champions League clash.
- Vangelis Pavlidis scored a 30-minute hat-trick for Benfica, aided by errors from Wojciech Szczesny.
- Robert Lewandowski scored twice, including a penalty, while Raphinha netted the dramatic late winner.
- Barcelona advanced to the last 16 with 18 points, leaving Benfica to reflect on missed opportunities.
Barcelona’s Champions League journey took a dramatic turn as they mounted a stunning comeback to defeat Benfica 5-4, ensuring their progression to the last 16.
The match began explosively with Benfica’s Vangelis Pavlidis scoring a hat-trick within 30 minutes, capitalizing on two costly mistakes by Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. Pavlidis’ clinical finishes and a penalty left Barça trailing, despite Robert Lewandowski converting a penalty to keep his side in contention.
Barcelona pressed forward, with Raphinha scoring a bizarre goal after Anatoliy Trubin’s clearance ricocheted off his head and into the net. However, Ronald Araujo’s own goal restored Benfica’s lead. Lewandowski’s second penalty brought the score to 4-3, setting up a nail-biting finish.
Eric Garcia’s header made it 4-4 in the dying minutes, but Raphinha’s composed finish in stoppage time sealed a remarkable victory.
Szczesny, making his Champions League return, had a nightmare outing, contributing to Benfica’s goals. Meanwhile, Raphinha and Lewandowski proved instrumental in turning the tide for Barça.
Barcelona’s thrilling victory demonstrated their spirit and secured their place in the knockout stage. Benfica, despite their early dominance, will rue missed chances and defensive lapses in a match for the ages.
