In a decisive display of skill and teamwork, Barcelona secured a formidable 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals on Wednesday. The match showcased the talents of key players Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski, whose contributions have positioned the Spanish club favorably to reach the semifinals, a feat they haven’t achieved since 2019.
Lewandowski, showing his prowess once again, found the back of the net twice, while Raphinha added to the tally with a goal and two assists. The young Lamine Yamal also made his mark, ensuring a substantial advantage over the German opponents whose semifinal dreams now seem distant.
“Despite the strong win, we’re cautious,” noted Barcelona’s coach Hansi Flick. “A four-goal lead is beneficial, but in football, anything can happen. We must maintain our intensity for the return leg next week,” he added, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the sport. This crucial second match is scheduled for Tuesday in Dortmund, who finished as runner-up last year after losing to Real Madrid.
Lewandowski also cautioned against complacency, stating, “We performed exceptionally well, but the job’s only half done. The return leg demands our focus and drive if we hope to advance further.”
Raphinha’s brilliance continued as he solidified his position atop the competition’s goal-scoring charts. He tapped the ball into an open net in the 25th minute to earn his 12th goal for this Champions League season. The Brazilian then assisted in Lewandowski’s first goal just minutes into the second half. “The synergy among the team is exceptional and is reflected in our performance this season. I hope this positive trend continues,” Raphinha remarked.
Lewandowski’s remarkable performance includes a powerful shot in the 66th minute, followed by a goal from Yamal in the 77th, courtesy of another Raphinha assist. At just 17, Yamal has already accumulated four Champions League goals, setting a record for his age group. Meanwhile, Lewandowski, who has netted 14 Champions League goals past the age of 35, displayed his remarkable scoring consistency.
Since his time at Dortmund between 2011-2014, Lewandowski has been a prolific scorer, currently leading the La Liga scorers with 25 goals, and boasting 40 across all competitions this season. Achieving 105 Champions League goals, Lewandowski joins an elite group alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He expressed his ongoing determination, saying, “I aim to always uplift the team with my skills and scoring abilities.”
Throughout Barcelona’s recent knockout stage matches, Raphinha has been a consistent scorer, notching up seven goals. Beginning the game with 11 goals, he surpassed rivals Serhou Guirassy and Harry Kane. Coach Flick acknowledged the efforts of his front and defensive lines, hailing all as integral to the team’s success.
In a moment of sportsmanship, Raphinha apologized to teammate Pau Cubarsí for “stealing” a goal that was destined to cross the line thanks to Cubarsí’s effort. This thriving Barcelona side is itching for glory, looking to add to their illustrious history since their last Champions League triumph in 2015. Meanwhile, a sensational goal by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and an impressive strike from Désiré Doué secured Paris Saint-Germain a 3-1 win over Aston Villa in another quarterfinal clash on Wednesday.