FC Barcelona have achieved a resounding victory against Benfica by 3-1 at Spotify Camp Nou, sealing their passage to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. In a match where tension and complications were expected, Flick's team dominated from start to finish.
Additionally, they had two standout figures: Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. Both wingers delivered a performance that made it clear they are essential pieces in the German coach's scheme.
However, beyond the sporting success, this result could bring an unexpected consequence for the team's future. Raphinha's display has jeopardized a signing that seemed imminent and was Lamine Yamal's great desire.
A Gala Barça to Eliminate Benfica
From the first minute, Barça showed their superiority. Lamine Yamal, with his unstoppable dribbling down the right wing, became a headache for the Portuguese defense. The first goal came after a masterful play by the young academy player, who assisted Raphinha to finish precisely and put the blaugranas ahead.
Benfica managed to equalize shortly after with an isolated goal, but Barça's response was swift. Lamine Yamal pulled a masterpiece out of his hat, leaving two defenders on the ground before beating the goalkeeper with a placed shot.
Before the break, the sentence came with another great offensive action. Balde broke down the left wing and delivered a measured cross that Raphinha headed into the net, securing his brace and leaving the tie practically solved.
In the second half, Barça controlled the pace. Pedri and Frenkie de Jong took over the midfield, managing the lead without giving up on the attack.
Although there were no more goals, the feeling was of absolute superiority. The passage to the quarter-finals was assured, and Camp Nou erupted in jubilation.
Raphinha Leaves No Room for...
If there's a player performing at a stratospheric level this season, it's Raphinha. His numbers speak for themselves: 43 goals and assists in 41 matches, figures that position him as a serious candidate for the Ballon d'Or.
The Brazilian winger has seized every opportunity and has become the team's most decisive footballer alongside Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal. His ability to score and assist has been key in Barça's resurgence this season.
The emergence of Raphinha and Lamine Yamal as undisputed starters leaves the potential arrival of Nico Williams hanging in the air. The Athletic Club winger is Joan Laporta and Deco's main target to strengthen the attack in the summer, but the Brazilian's display could change the plans.
Lamine Yamal Loses His Best Partner
In recent months, much has been said about the friendship between Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, with whom he shares a locker room in the Spanish national team. Both have shown great chemistry on and off the field, which caused excitement among Barça fans to see them together at Barça.
However, the reality is that with Raphinha in this form, the signing of Nico Williams loses its sense. His 60M euro release clause is a significant investment for the club. In the current economic situation, it doesn't seem a priority to strengthen a position where there are two players at their best.
Barça would have to make significant sales to undertake the operation. Flick believes there are other positions that need more reinforcements, such as the midfield and defense.
Increasingly Far from Barça
The excellent performance of Raphinha and Lamine Yamal makes it clear that there will be no changes in the offensive trident. With Lewandowski in the center and the two wingers in top form, the signing of Nico Williams becomes increasingly complicated.
As of today, Barça's priority seems to be consolidating their current squad and not making large expenditures in the summer. This is bad news for Lamine Yamal, who dreamed of playing alongside his friend Nico at Camp Nou.