Barcelona Qualify for Champions League Quarter-Finals with Emotional Tribute to Carles Miñarro
Barcelona secured their place in the Champions League quarter-finals with a dominant 3-1 victory over Benfica, delivering a stunning performance in honor of their late club doctor, Carles Miñarro. Just hours after his funeral, the team paid the ultimate tribute by securing a crucial win at Montjuïc.
Barcelona’s Emotional Motivation
The tragic passing of Miñarro at the team hotel just days earlier deeply impacted the squad. However, as Pedri stated after the match:
We tried to do everything for him.
Manager Hansi Flick echoed this sentiment before kickoff, expressing confidence that Miñarro would be watching over them.
With this emotional drive, Barcelona delivered one of their best performances of the season.
Barcelona’s First-Half Dominance
The match was effectively decided in the first 45 minutes, where Barcelona overpowered Benfica with breathtaking football.
Raphinha scored twice, continuing his exceptional form against Benfica, bringing his tally to five goals in three games against the
Portuguese side. Lamine Yamal made history as the youngest player to score and assist in the Champions League at just 17 years and 241 days. Barcelona’s attack was relentless, recording 12 shots to 1 in the first half. The scoreboard read 3-1 at halftime, 4-1 on aggregate, but in truth, it could have been even more.
How Barcelona Broke Down Benfica
- Lamine Yamal’s brilliance: The teenager showcased dazzling footwork, creating the first goal for Raphinha with a scuffed shot-turned-perfect cross.
- Immediate response: Benfica briefly equalized via Nicolás Otamendi, but Barcelona responded instantly with Lamine Yamal’s wonder strike—a delicate yet precise finish from the edge of the box.
- Raphinha’s second: Alejandro Balde’s surging run split the Benfica defense, allowing Raphinha to smash home the third.
Second Half: Controlled and Composed
With the match effectively won, Barcelona managed the second half with composure.
Ronald Araújo came close with a header.
Lamine Yamal nearly set up Dani Olmo for another.
Jules Koundé made a goal-line clearance to deny Zeki Amdouni late on.
Despite Benfica’s efforts, they never truly looked like staging a comeback. Barcelona’s defensive structure held firm, ensuring a smooth path to the quarter-finals.
Barcelona’s Champions League Ambitions
After such an impressive display, Raphinha boldly declared that Barcelona can win the Champions League, and on this evidence, it’s not hard to believe.
With their attacking firepower, defensive resilience, and emotional unity, Barcelona look like genuine contenders. This victory wasn’t just about progression—it was about honoring Carles Miñarro and proving they have what it takes to go all the way.
Next stop: The Champions League quarter-finals!
