Teenager Lamine Yamal was once again the star of the show as Barcelona defeated Benfica to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
The 17-year-old provided a brilliant assist for Raphinha, who opened the scoring. Yamal then topped that with a stunning strike, putting Barcelona ahead 2-1 on the night and 3-1 on aggregate.
Although Nicolas Otamendi equalized with an excellent header, Benfica’s hopes were dashed by Yamal’s brilliance. Raphinha scored again with a clinical finish into the bottom corner.
There was some confusion regarding Raphinha’s second goal, as play appeared to have been stopped for a foul by Otamendi on the edge of the box. However, after a check by the video assistant referee (VAR), the goal was confirmed, and Otamendi’s yellow card was rescinded.
While Yamal showcased his talent with impressive plays, Raphinha also deserves recognition for his performance.
His two goals mean he has contributed to 16 goals in the Champions League this season. Only Lionel Messi (with 14 goals and five assists in the 2011-12 season) has had a hand in more goals in a single season for Barcelona in this competition than Raphinha, who has 11 goals and five assists.
Barcelona could have won by an even larger margin, but Frenkie de Jong missed a golden opportunity to add a fourth goal, firing wide from close range after a lovely team move.
Barcelona has not lost a match in any competition since December 21, and Hansi Flick’s side will face Borussia Dortmund or Lille in the quarter-finals.
