Barcelona have booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals, sealing a 4-1 aggregate victory over Benfica in their Round of 16 tie.
After scoring the only goal in the first leg, Raphinha wasted no time in the return fixture, finding the net in the 11th minute. It was brilliant work from Lamine Yamal, who evaded two Benfica defenders before delivering a perfect cross for the Brazilian forward to volley home.
However, Benfica responded just two minutes later, with Nicolás Otamendi, the former Valencia defender, leveling the score.
Barcelona regained the lead at the Estadi Olímpic, making it 3-1 on aggregate, thanks to a stunning strike from Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old sensation picked up the ball on the right touchline after a deep corner, cut inside, and curled a beautiful shot into the far corner, leaving Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin helpless.
Just before halftime, Barcelona extended their lead to 3-1 on the night, with Raphinha scoring his second. Initially ruled out for offside, VAR confirmed the Brazilian was onside. The goal was set up by Alejandro Balde, who made a surging run from his own half before teeing up his teammate.
The second half played out with little urgency, as Barcelona comfortably saw out the game to confirm their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.
They now await their next opponent, which will be decided between Lille and Borussia Dortmund, who conclude their last-16 tie on Wednesday.
