Barcelona Works Magic: Raphinha Shines as Barça Defeats Benfica in a Thrilling Match with Blunders

 

Barcelona Works Magic and Defeats Benfica with Raphinha as Hero in a Thrilling Match Full of Blunders

Barcelona worked magic in Lisbon. The Spanish team, with a good dose of heroism, defeated Benfica 5-4 in a historic thriller at the Estádio da Luz, during the 7th and penultimate round of the Champions League group stage. The visitors were down 4-2 until the 33rd minute of the second half but dramatically fought back to overcome the hosts.

Raphinha was the standout hero of the match, scoring twice: first from a blunder by goalkeeper Trubin, and later, in the final play, by finishing a counterattack to secure the 5-4 win. Barça also found the net through Lewandowski, with two penalty kicks, and defender Eric Garcia during their comeback.

On the other hand, Pavlidis shone for the Portuguese side. The Greek striker scored three times (a hat-trick) for the hosts, who also benefited from an own goal by Ronald Araújo in a night marked by a series of mistakes from goalkeeper Szczesny.

The result left Barcelona with 18 points, virtually securing their spot in the tournament's round of 16. Meanwhile, Benfica stayed at 10 points, remaining in the playoff zone.

The teams will determine their final positions in the group stage on the 29th. Benfica visits Juventus in Italy at 5 PM (Brasília time), while Barcelona, at the same time, hosts Atalanta.

How the Match Unfolded

Benfica opened the scoring in the very first minute with a brilliant play involving their two full-backs.

Tomás Araújo delivered a beautiful long pass to Carreras, who crossed perfectly for Pavlidis to finish first-time: 1-0.

The Portuguese extended their lead after a blunder by Szczesny, who kicked the ball into Baldé during an opponent's long pass. The ball fell to Pavlidis, who scored with the goal wide open: 2-1.

Szczesny’s nightmare continued when he conceded a penalty on Aktürkoglu. Pavlidis converted it confidently, making it 3-1 for Benfica.

In the second half, Barcelona reduced the deficit through Raphinha, who capitalized on an error by Trubin when the goalkeeper's clearance hit his head directly. The ball ended up in the net: 3-2.

However, Ronald Araújo scored an own goal while trying to block a cross, increasing the lead to 4-2.

The Spanish side’s comeback began in the 33rd minute when Yamal was fouled by Carreras inside the box. Lewandowski converted the penalty with finesse, making it 4-3.

At the 41st minute, Eric Garcia equalized with a powerful header after a short corner and a precise cross from Pedri: 4-4.

The winning goal came in stoppage time. Raphinha was sent through on a counterattack, drove into the box, and sealed the 5-4 victory with his left foot, ensuring a legendary comeback for Barcelona.