Barcelona secured their place in the Champions League quarter-finals with a commanding 3-1 victory over Benfica, a performance dedicated to their late club doctor, Carles Minarro. Earlier that day, a funeral was held for Minarro, who had passed away unexpectedly at the team hotel. That evening, the players honored his memory in the best way they knew by delivering a dominant display on the pitch.
From the outset, Barcelona played with determination, pressing aggressively and moving the ball with confidence. Raphinha opened the scoring in the 11th minute after Lamine Yamal dazzled the defense, twisting and turning before sending a scuffed shot that unintentionally turned into the perfect assist. The Brazilian volleyed it home, putting the home side ahead. However, Benfica quickly responded, as Nicolás Otamendi headed in from a corner just two minutes later.
Undeterred, Barcelona pushed forward, and it was the 17-year-old Yamal who restored the lead with a moment of brilliance. Starting near the corner flag, he weaved past his marker before executing a delicate flick with his ankle. The ball curled gracefully into the far corner, leaving the goalkeeper helpless. Raphinha, recognizing the significance of the moment, theatrically polished Yamal’s boot in celebration.
The intensity continued, and soon after, Barcelona struck again. Alejandro Balde surged up the pitch before slipping a precise pass to Raphinha, who fired a low, unstoppable shot past the keeper. The goal was initially ruled offside but was confirmed after a VAR review. Raphinha climbed onto the advertising boards, arms spread wide, celebrating with the fans.
By halftime, the score was 3-1, and with a 4-1 advantage on aggregate, the tie was all but settled. The second half saw Barcelona manage the game efficiently, controlling possession and dictating the tempo. Although Ronald Araújo and Dani Olmo threatened to add to the scoreline, there was little urgency to push for more goals. Benfica, on the other hand, struggled to create meaningful opportunities, with Wojciech Szczesny making routine saves and Jules Koundé clearing a late header off the line.
As the final whistle blew, Barcelona’s players embraced, knowing they had not only advanced in the competition but had done so in a way that honored their departed doctor. It was a performance filled with quality, composure, and, above all, purpose one that made a fitting tribute.
