Julius OkorieOnly a new version of miracle of Daman can stop Barcelona from qualifying for the semi-finals of this year’s Champions League ,after their five star performance on Wednesday night in the first leg quarter-final clash.
The Hansi Flick tutored side did not only take Borussia Dortmund to the cleaners, but did it in style with Polish strongman, Robert Lewandowski, grabbing a brace in 4-0 demoliton of Dortmund.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis victory marks a significant step for Hansi Flick’s squad, bringing them closer to the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2019, while also extending their unbeaten streak to 23 matches.
The match began on a high note for Barcelona when Raphinha, in excellent form, opened the scoring. Lewandowski then added to his tally, reaching an impressive total of 40 goals for the season with his brace.
Young talent, Lamine Yamal, proved to be a key player throughout the match, capping off the team’s performance with their fourth goal as Dortmund struggled to respond.
Barcelona, who are chasing their sixth Champions League title, having won previously in 1992,2006, 2009,2011 and 2015 are now poised to face either Inter Milan or Bayern Munich in the semi-finals, with the second leg set for next Tuesday, in Germany. The Germany leg from all indications is just a formality
Flick’s lineup remained consistent, with Fermin Lopez stepping in for Gavi in the attacking midfield role to bolster the dynamic forward trio. From the outset, Barcelona seized control, with Gregor Kobel making notable saves against both Yamal and Lewandowski.
Yamal, 17, created numerous opportunities, displaying impressive agility. His contributions were key in Barcelona taking the lead after a controversial free-kick situation caused by Karim Adeyemi’s foul.
Fermin Lopez expertly set up Inigo Martinez, whose effort was confirmed as a goal by VAR after Raphinha ensured it crossed the line.
Despite a strong effort from Dortmund, including a missed chance from Serhou Guirassy, they struggled to gain momentum against Barcelona’s well-organised defence. As the second half unfolded, Lewandowski scored his 10th goal of the tournament shortly after the break, successfully converting a cross from Raphinha.
READ ALSO:Champions League: All Hail Jude Bellingham Despite Madrid Defeat
In the second Champions League first leg quarter-final match of the night, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia delivered a standout performance for Paris Saint-Germain as they came from behind to secure a 3-1 win over Aston Villa.
For Villa to have shot into the lead in Paris reveals the determination the English team brought into the clash despite defeat, and also means fighting to the finish in the return leg in front of their fans cannot be ruled out.
PSG appear to have taken to heart Primebusiness.africa submission that they “have no choice but to win to have a chance of progressing as the return leg will not be a tea party”
Thus after falling behind to a 35th-minute goal by Morgan Rogers, PSG quickly equalised through an excellent strike by Desire Doue Kvaratskhelia’s remarkable goal just after halftime showcased his exceptional talent and put PSG ahead. Nuno Mendes capped off the evening with a crucial third goal during stoppage time, establishing a valuable two-goal advantage to carry into the second leg next Tuesday in Birmingham.
Having successfully eliminated Liverpool in the previous round, Luis Enrique’s team appears to be in an advantageous position to advance to the semi-finals for the second consecutive year.
Villa, backed by Prince William and his son at the Parc des Princes, will need to deliver a strong performance at home to reach the last four for the first time since their triumph in 1982.
Julius Okorie is Chief Sports and Entertainment Correspondent for Prime Business Africa. He began his journalism career with the Champion Newspaper and Sporting Champion and later moved on to Daily Independent and the Nation Newspapers. Okorie joined Prime Business Africa in 2024 bringing on board 20 years of experience in writing investigative news on Sports and Entertainment. His well researched and highly informative articles on Sports Business and general entertainment are followed by a wide range of audience.
