FC Barcelona vs. SL Benfica

Date: March 11, 2025 Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona Competition: UEFA Champions League – Round of 16, 2nd Leg

Final Score:

FC Barcelona 3-1 SL Benfica(Barcelona win 4-1 on aggregate)

Match Summary:

FC Barcelona secured their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals with a commanding 3-1 victory over SL Benfica in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie. A stellar performance from Raphinha, who netted a brace, and a goal from Lamine Yamal, ensured that the Catalan giants comfortably advanced on aggregate.

First Half:

Barcelona started the match with high intensity and attacking intent, pressing Benfica deep into their own half. The breakthrough came in the 11th minute, when Raphinha found the net with a well-placed shot after a precise assist from Frenkie de Jong.

Benfica struggled to gain momentum, but they had a brief spell of possession where Nicolás Otamendi tested Szczęsny with a header from a set piece. However, Barcelona doubled their lead in the 27th minute, with Lamine Yamal finishing off a quick counter-attack.

Second Half:

Raphinha struck again in the 42nd minute, showcasing his lethal finishing with a powerful strike to make it 3-0. Benfica managed to pull one back in the second half through Otamendi (52’), but it was merely a consolation as Barcelona controlled the remainder of the game.

Despite a few late chances for Benfica, Barcelona’s defense, led by Ronald Araújo and Iñigo Martínez, held firm to ensure progression to the quarter-finals.

Key Stats:

• Possession: Barcelona 64% - 36% Benfica

• Total Attempts: Barcelona 20 - 8 Benfica

• Shots on Target: Barcelona 6 - 2 Benfica

• Corners: Barcelona 6 - 1 Benfica

• Pass Completion Rate: Barcelona 91% - 77% Benfica

Man of the Match:

Raphinha (FC Barcelona) – The Brazilian winger was instrumental, scoring twice and constantly threatening Benfica’s defense.

Barcelona now await the quarter-final draw, while Benfica exit the competition after a valiant effort.