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Raphinha's Strike Secures 10-Man Barcelona a Narrow Win Over Benfica

Barcelona overcame an early red card and a resilient Benfica to claim a 1-0 advantage in the Champions League last-16 first leg.

Soccer Football - Champions League - Round of 16 - First Leg - Benfica v FC Barcelona - Estadio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal - March 5, 2025 FC Barcelona's Raphinha celebrates scoring their first goal REUTERS/Rodrigo Antunes
Soccer Football - Champions League - Round of 16 - First Leg - Benfica v FC Barcelona - Estadio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal - March 5, 2025 FC Barcelona's Raphinha celebrates scoring their first goal with teammates REUTERS/Pedro Nunes

Overview

  • Raphinha scored the decisive goal in the 61st minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to give Barcelona a slim lead in Lisbon.
  • Teenage defender Pau Cubarsi was sent off in the 22nd minute for a last-man foul, leaving Barcelona to play with 10 men for most of the match.
  • Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny delivered a standout performance, making several crucial saves to keep Benfica scoreless.
  • Hansi Flick's side showed resilience despite their numerical disadvantage, with tactical adjustments and defensive discipline proving key.
  • The second leg of the tie will take place next Tuesday at Barcelona's home stadium, with the aggregate winner advancing to the quarterfinals.