In an eventful Champions League match on Wednesday, Barcelona’s resilience and goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny’s top-notch performance were the highlights, as they managed a 1-0 victory over Benfica despite being reduced to 10 players early in the game. The contest took place at Benfica’s formidable Stadium of Light, setting the stage for a tough round of 16 opener that demanded every ounce of effort from the visitors.
Szczesny, who stood out with several crucial saves, was crucial in securing the triumph for Barcelona. His noteworthy interventions started soon after kick-off, notably deflecting a close-range attempt from Benfica forward Kerem Akturkoglu. The Polish keeper’s expertise didn’t waver throughout the match, as he continued to deny the Portuguese side opportunities, including a well-aimed free-kick by Orkun Kokcu in the 25th minute.
Barcelona’s struggle intensified after Pau Cubarsí was shown a straight red card in the 22nd minute for a tackle from behind on Vangelis Pavlidis, weakening the visitors’ defense early on. Despite the pressure, Szczesny rose to the occasion again with another stellar save right before halftime, preventing a header by Akturkoglu from hitting the target.
In the second half, the 34-year-old goalkeeper maintained his exemplary performance, countering Benfica’s persistent attacks with precision. His heroics culminated with a remarkable save in stoppage time from a half-volley by substitute Renato Sanches, preserving Barcelona’s narrow lead until the final whistle.
Szczesny’s involvement with Barcelona marks a noteworthy return from retirement after the club’s primary goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen, suffered a severe knee injury last year. Initially, Iñaki Peña stepped in to fill the void but eventually, head coach Hansi Flick placed his trust in Szczesny, making him the go-to choice for the prestigious Spanish club.
In reaction to Cubarsí’s ejection, Flick had to quickly adapt his strategy, replacing playmaker Dani Olmo with defender Ronald Araújo in the 28th minute, shuffling the squad’s structure to fortify their backline. At just 18, Cubarsí’s dismissal was a significant moment, as it forced Barcelona to play with a man down while sustaining their efforts against a challenging opponent.
The second leg of this round of 16 tie is set to unfold next Tuesday at Barcelona’s home ground, promising another thrilling encounter with much at stake for both European powerhouses.
