Barcelona’s Dramatic Comeback Victory Against Benfica

Match Overview

The game at Estádio da Luz was anything but ordinary. Benfica took an early lead through Vangelis Pavlidis, who went on to score a hat-trick in the first half. Barcelona responded with goals from Robert Lewandowski (two penalties) and Raphinha (two), who was the hero of the night. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both sides exchanging leads.

First Half Struggles for Barcelona

Barcelona started poorly, conceding a goal in the second minute to Pavlidis. While Lewandowski equalized from the penalty spot, Barcelona’s defense was vulnerable. Pavlidis exploited goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny’s error to make it 2-1 before completing his hat-trick from the penalty spot, leaving Barcelona trailing 3-1 at half-time. Coach Hansi Flick admitted that their first-half performance was poor and highlighted that they made many defensive errors.

Second Half Comeback

Barcelona displayed resilience in the second half, determined to turn the game around. Raphinha scored early in the second half, taking advantage of a poor goal kick to equalize. However, an own goal by Ronald Araújo put Benfica back in the lead. Barcelona, though, refused to give up. Lewandowski converted another penalty, and Eric García equalized with a header, setting up an exciting finale. Raphinha completed the comeback by scoring a late goal in a counterattack.

Raphinha’s Performance

Raphinha was pivotal in Barcelona’s win, scoring two goals, including the last-gasp winner, and being involved in another. He admitted that he is in the best form of his career, noting his 22 goals in all competitions this season. His impact extended beyond the goals, being at the center of a post-match scuffle after Benfica players insulted him.

Post-Match Reactions

After the game, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick praised the mentality of his team in the second half and stated the importance of having time to train as it has been difficult due to the congested schedule. Wojciech Szczęsny admitted that the first six months at Barcelona have been challenging, though he is happy with his decision to join the club. The victory ensures Barcelona’s direct passage to the Round of 16, allowing them to avoid two extra fixtures in February.

Key Moments

• Early goal by Pavlidis for Benfica
• Lewandowski’s penalty to equalize
• Pavlidis’ hat-trick
• Raphinha’s goal to make it 2-4
• Araújo’s own goal
• Lewandowski’s second penalty
• Eric García’s equalizer
• Raphinha’s 96th-minute winner

The match was a memorable clash between two European giants. Barcelona’s win against Benfica, marked by stunning goals, dramatic comebacks, and late drama, underscores the unpredictable nature of football. The result cements their place in the knockout stage of the Champions League, setting the stage for more exciting games.