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16 Mar 2025, Sun

Lamine Yamal extends Barcelona’s lead with a stunning goal against Benfica in the Champions League

Lamine Yamal


The clash between Barcelona and Benfica, part of the Champions League, is electrifying the Olímpico Lluís Companys Stadium this Tuesday, March 11, 2025, with kickoff at 14:45 (local time). As of the 29th minute of the first half, the scoreboard shows 2-1 in favor of the Catalan side, which is looking to solidify its edge after winning the first leg 1-0. The game has been packed with breathtaking moments, spotlighting young striker Lamine Yamal, who scored a stunning goal that ignited the crowd. Benfica, however, refuses to back down, responding with dangerous plays like the equalizer from Otamendi. Barcelona’s precise passing and Benfica’s defensive pressure indicate the match remains wide open, promising excitement until the final whistle.

At the 10th minute, Raphinha broke the deadlock after a brilliant move by Yamal, who dribbled past defenders and delivered a pinpoint cross. Benfica hit back swiftly, leveling the score at the 12th minute with Otamendi rising unmarked in the box. Yet, Barcelona regained the lead at the 26th minute when Yamal, in a solo effort, curled a shot from outside the box into Trubin’s far corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

The stadium pulses with energy at every touch of the ball, and fans watch eagerly as the game unfolds at a relentless pace, with both teams creating chances and keeping the contest finely balanced.

Lamine Yamal Shines and Leads Barcelona’s Attack

At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal is stealing the show for Barcelona in this showdown against Benfica. The young forward has already made his mark twice: first with a precise assist for Raphinha at the 10th minute, and then with a spectacular goal at the 26th minute, driving the ball from the right to the center and finishing into Trubin’s corner. His speed, skill, and vision have troubled the Portuguese defense, which has yet to find a way to contain him. Yamal has taken dangerous shots, like one at the 23rd minute that narrowly missed, and remains a cornerstone of Barcelona’s attack.

Other Barcelona players are also standing out. Raphinha, beyond his goal, has been crafting plays down the right, while Pedri and Dani Olmo orchestrate the midfield with sharp passes. Lewandowski, though yet to score, stays involved, creating space and testing Trubin, as seen at the 9th minute when the goalkeeper made a solid save.

Benfica Holds Firm and Chases Equalizer at Olímpico Lluís Companys

Despite trailing, Benfica proves it didn’t come to Barcelona just to defend. Otamendi’s goal at the 12th minute, following a corner from Schjelderup, boosted the Portuguese side, which now presses for an equalizer. At the 29th minute, Aursnes whipped in another threatening corner, but goalkeeper Szczesny came off his line to clear the danger. The team drops back at times but seizes counterattacks to try catching Barcelona’s defense off guard, a unit that has already shown weakness in aerial duels.

Expanding the Focus

Recent history between Barcelona and Benfica in the Champions League reveals tight battles. In the first leg of this phase, Barcelona secured a 1-0 victory in Portugal, giving the Spanish side a slight upper hand. Past seasons have seen memorable encounters, like the 3-3 draw in 2021, underscoring the competitiveness between these clubs.

This Champions League edition has showcased young talents, and Yamal is among the stars. At only 17, he’s racked up decisive performances, establishing himself as a global football prospect and validating his coach’s trust in starting him.

Key Moments of the First Half So Far

  • 1. Barcelona Goal (10’): Yamal dribbles down the right, enters the box, and crosses low for Raphinha to score the opener.
  • 2. Benfica Goal (12’): Otamendi rises alone in the box after a Schjelderup corner and heads in the equalizer.
  • 3. Yamal’s Stunner (26’): The young striker cuts in from the right and curls a shot from distance, restoring Barcelona’s lead.
  • 4. Missed Chances: Lewandowski (9’) and Dani Olmo (20’) threaten but fail to convert.
  • 5. Benfica Pressure: Aursnes (29’) delivers a dangerous corner, but Szczesny saves.
  • 6. Offsides: Raphinha (8’) and Schjelderup (7’) are caught offside in promising moves.

How the Game Is Unfolding in Barcelona

Barcelona kicked off imposing its trademark style, with possession and quick passes in the attacking third. At the 7th minute, Álex Balde linked up with Raphinha and fired a dangerous shot, only for it to be ruled out for offside. By the 17th minute, the Catalan side dictated the offensive tempo, while Benfica sat back, probing for counterattacking gaps. The Portuguese plan paid off at the 12th minute when Otamendi capitalized on a marking lapse to tie the game. Since then, the intensity has surged, with both teams crafting clear chances. At the 25th minute, Pedri sparked a move down the left, but Raphinha’s cross was cut out by António Silva, highlighting Benfica’s defensive resilience at critical junctures.

Benfica, despite less possession, has excelled at set pieces. Otamendi’s goal exemplified this, and the team keeps leaning on corners and aerial plays to threaten Szczesny’s goal. At the 29-minute mark, the match reflects tactical parity, with Barcelona dominating creation and Benfica excelling in rapid transitions.

The Crowd Makes a Difference at the Stadium

At Olímpico Lluís Companys, the atmosphere is electric. Barcelona fans pack the stands and erupt with every move from Yamal and Raphinha, especially after the stunning goal that put their team ahead again at the 26th minute. The deafening roar reverberates through the venue, urging the players to sustain their high tempo.

Trivia About the Clash

  • Lamine Yamal is the youngest player to score in this season’s Champions League, at 17.
  • Barcelona hasn’t lost to Benfica at home since 2012, when they drew 0-0.
  • Otamendi, at 37, remains Benfica’s defensive leader and has two goals in the competition.

Infographic Summary

  • Possession up to 29’: Barcelona 62%, Benfica 38%.
  • Shots: Barcelona 7, Benfica 3.
  • Corners: Barcelona 2, Benfica 3.

Game Timeline

  • 10’: Raphinha scores the opener with Yamal’s assist.
  • 12’: Otamendi levels it for Benfica on a set piece.

Relevant Data

Today, Barcelona aims to keep its home unbeaten streak in the 2025 Champions League alive. So far, the Catalan side boasts three wins and a draw in the tournament. Benfica, meanwhile, seeks its first away victory this edition, after two losses and a draw on the road.

Yamal’s form is striking: he’s been involved in five goals (three scored, two assisted) across six Champions League games. Raphinha, too, is in fine shape, with four goals this European season.

The estimated crowd at Olímpico Lluís Companys is 45,000, piling pressure on Benfica.

Spotlight on Barcelona’s Attack

Yamal remains the standout. At the 19th minute, he drove through the middle and tried to find Lewandowski, but the pass was overhit. Three minutes later, he fired from distance, rattling Trubin. His constant movement creates openings for Pedri and Dani Olmo, who dictate the midfield tempo.

Raphinha pairs well with Balde on the left, as seen in the 8th-minute chance ruled offside. Lewandowski, though goalless, stays active, controlling balls in the box and forcing saves from Trubin.

At the 25th minute, Pedri nearly extended the lead in a team move, but Benfica’s defense held firm.

Tactics on Display

  • Barcelona: The team relies on possession and its forwards’ speed to breach the opposition backline.
  • Benfica: The Portuguese side drops back to exploit counters and set pieces, like Otamendi’s goal.
  • Midfield Battle: Pedri and Dani Olmo face tight marking from Aursnes and Schjelderup.

Benfica’s Pressure Builds

At the 29th minute, Benfica earned a corner after a strong left-wing move. Aursnes sent it into the box, and Szczesny had to step up to deny an equalizer. Earlier, at the 12th minute, the team showcased its aerial prowess, with Otamendi punishing a defensive lapse.

The Portuguese outfit tries to quicken the pace down the flanks but struggles with Balde’s marking and imprecise passing, like Schjelderup’s offside run at the 7th minute.

Tactical balance keeps the game unpredictable, with both sides hunting for goals at every chance.

Recent Tournament History

Barcelona enters the match riding high after a 1-0 win in Portugal in the first leg. At home, the team has a strong Champions League record, with just one loss in its last 15 games. Benfica, however, struggles away, though its European experience makes it a tough foe.

First Half Details

As time ticks on, Barcelona holds possession, but Benfica persists. At the 20th minute, Dani Olmo shot wide after a Balde cross. At the 23rd minute, Yamal nearly added another with a long-range effort.

Benfica keeps pushing with set pieces. At the 29th minute, Aursnes crafted another chance, but Barcelona’s defense stays vigilant.

What’s at Stake

The match is pivotal for both teams’ Champions League ambitions. Barcelona wants a home win to cement its group standing, while Benfica hunts for away points to keep its knockout hopes alive.

The game rolls on, with Barcelona leading 2-1 at the 29th minute of the first half.

Tips and Trivia for Fans

  • Yamal is already likened to Messi for his dribbling and finishing flair.
  • Olímpico Lluís Companys hosts Barcelona while Camp Nou undergoes renovations.
  • Otamendi is the most seasoned player on the pitch, with over 100 European games.
  • Barcelona has the competition’s top attack so far, with 18 goals.

Stats and Key Figures

Barcelona has taken seven shots by the 29th minute, three on target. Benfica, more efficient, has three attempts, two dangerous. Possession mirrors Catalan control, but Benfica’s aerial game levels the playing field. Yamal leads with four completed dribbles, while Otamendi shines defensively with five clearances.

The 45,000-strong crowd is the largest at Olímpico Lluís Companys this season. Barcelona’s temperature at 14:45 is 18°C, perfect for high-octane football.

The Champions League 2024/2025 goal average is 2.8 per game, and this match already exceeds it.

Game Highlights So Far

  • Yamal’s 26th-minute screamer is a contender for the round’s best goal.
  • Benfica’s quick reply via Otamendi underlines its set-piece strength.
  • Raphinha and Balde form a lethal left-sided duo, generating constant threats.

Historical Context and Extra Info

The Barcelona-Benfica rivalry spans decades in European competition. In 1961, Benfica beat Barcelona 3-2 in the European Cup final, claiming its first continental title. Today, the stakes differ, but the intensity endures.

Olímpico Lluís Companys, built for the 1992 Olympics, is Barcelona’s temporary home, with a Camp Nou return slated for 2026.

Relentless Pace on the Pitch

At the 21st minute, Lewandowski nearly scored but was flagged offside after a Raphinha pass. Barcelona keeps pressing, while Benfica searches for defensive gaps. The match remains open, with chances aplenty.

Game Poised for Drama

With the score at 2-1, the first half still holds surprises. Barcelona aims to widen the gap, while Benfica fights for a leveler. Yamal, Raphinha, and Otamendi continue as the clash’s driving forces.

Numbers That Stand Out

Yamal has two direct goal involvements in this game (one goal, one assist). Barcelona holds 62% possession, but Benfica has converted one of its three shots. The tactical duel between coaches keeps things even.



The clash between Barcelona and Benfica, part of the Champions League, is electrifying the Olímpico Lluís Companys Stadium this Tuesday, March 11, 2025, with kickoff at 14:45 (local time). As of the 29th minute of the first half, the scoreboard shows 2-1 in favor of the Catalan side, which is looking to solidify its edge after winning the first leg 1-0. The game has been packed with breathtaking moments, spotlighting young striker Lamine Yamal, who scored a stunning goal that ignited the crowd. Benfica, however, refuses to back down, responding with dangerous plays like the equalizer from Otamendi. Barcelona’s precise passing and Benfica’s defensive pressure indicate the match remains wide open, promising excitement until the final whistle.

At the 10th minute, Raphinha broke the deadlock after a brilliant move by Yamal, who dribbled past defenders and delivered a pinpoint cross. Benfica hit back swiftly, leveling the score at the 12th minute with Otamendi rising unmarked in the box. Yet, Barcelona regained the lead at the 26th minute when Yamal, in a solo effort, curled a shot from outside the box into Trubin’s far corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

The stadium pulses with energy at every touch of the ball, and fans watch eagerly as the game unfolds at a relentless pace, with both teams creating chances and keeping the contest finely balanced.

Lamine Yamal Shines and Leads Barcelona’s Attack

At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal is stealing the show for Barcelona in this showdown against Benfica. The young forward has already made his mark twice: first with a precise assist for Raphinha at the 10th minute, and then with a spectacular goal at the 26th minute, driving the ball from the right to the center and finishing into Trubin’s corner. His speed, skill, and vision have troubled the Portuguese defense, which has yet to find a way to contain him. Yamal has taken dangerous shots, like one at the 23rd minute that narrowly missed, and remains a cornerstone of Barcelona’s attack.

Other Barcelona players are also standing out. Raphinha, beyond his goal, has been crafting plays down the right, while Pedri and Dani Olmo orchestrate the midfield with sharp passes. Lewandowski, though yet to score, stays involved, creating space and testing Trubin, as seen at the 9th minute when the goalkeeper made a solid save.

Benfica Holds Firm and Chases Equalizer at Olímpico Lluís Companys

Despite trailing, Benfica proves it didn’t come to Barcelona just to defend. Otamendi’s goal at the 12th minute, following a corner from Schjelderup, boosted the Portuguese side, which now presses for an equalizer. At the 29th minute, Aursnes whipped in another threatening corner, but goalkeeper Szczesny came off his line to clear the danger. The team drops back at times but seizes counterattacks to try catching Barcelona’s defense off guard, a unit that has already shown weakness in aerial duels.

Expanding the Focus

Recent history between Barcelona and Benfica in the Champions League reveals tight battles. In the first leg of this phase, Barcelona secured a 1-0 victory in Portugal, giving the Spanish side a slight upper hand. Past seasons have seen memorable encounters, like the 3-3 draw in 2021, underscoring the competitiveness between these clubs.

This Champions League edition has showcased young talents, and Yamal is among the stars. At only 17, he’s racked up decisive performances, establishing himself as a global football prospect and validating his coach’s trust in starting him.

Key Moments of the First Half So Far

  • 1. Barcelona Goal (10’): Yamal dribbles down the right, enters the box, and crosses low for Raphinha to score the opener.
  • 2. Benfica Goal (12’): Otamendi rises alone in the box after a Schjelderup corner and heads in the equalizer.
  • 3. Yamal’s Stunner (26’): The young striker cuts in from the right and curls a shot from distance, restoring Barcelona’s lead.
  • 4. Missed Chances: Lewandowski (9’) and Dani Olmo (20’) threaten but fail to convert.
  • 5. Benfica Pressure: Aursnes (29’) delivers a dangerous corner, but Szczesny saves.
  • 6. Offsides: Raphinha (8’) and Schjelderup (7’) are caught offside in promising moves.

How the Game Is Unfolding in Barcelona

Barcelona kicked off imposing its trademark style, with possession and quick passes in the attacking third. At the 7th minute, Álex Balde linked up with Raphinha and fired a dangerous shot, only for it to be ruled out for offside. By the 17th minute, the Catalan side dictated the offensive tempo, while Benfica sat back, probing for counterattacking gaps. The Portuguese plan paid off at the 12th minute when Otamendi capitalized on a marking lapse to tie the game. Since then, the intensity has surged, with both teams crafting clear chances. At the 25th minute, Pedri sparked a move down the left, but Raphinha’s cross was cut out by António Silva, highlighting Benfica’s defensive resilience at critical junctures.

Benfica, despite less possession, has excelled at set pieces. Otamendi’s goal exemplified this, and the team keeps leaning on corners and aerial plays to threaten Szczesny’s goal. At the 29-minute mark, the match reflects tactical parity, with Barcelona dominating creation and Benfica excelling in rapid transitions.

The Crowd Makes a Difference at the Stadium

At Olímpico Lluís Companys, the atmosphere is electric. Barcelona fans pack the stands and erupt with every move from Yamal and Raphinha, especially after the stunning goal that put their team ahead again at the 26th minute. The deafening roar reverberates through the venue, urging the players to sustain their high tempo.

Trivia About the Clash

  • Lamine Yamal is the youngest player to score in this season’s Champions League, at 17.
  • Barcelona hasn’t lost to Benfica at home since 2012, when they drew 0-0.
  • Otamendi, at 37, remains Benfica’s defensive leader and has two goals in the competition.

Infographic Summary

  • Possession up to 29’: Barcelona 62%, Benfica 38%.
  • Shots: Barcelona 7, Benfica 3.
  • Corners: Barcelona 2, Benfica 3.

Game Timeline

  • 10’: Raphinha scores the opener with Yamal’s assist.
  • 12’: Otamendi levels it for Benfica on a set piece.

Relevant Data

Today, Barcelona aims to keep its home unbeaten streak in the 2025 Champions League alive. So far, the Catalan side boasts three wins and a draw in the tournament. Benfica, meanwhile, seeks its first away victory this edition, after two losses and a draw on the road.

Yamal’s form is striking: he’s been involved in five goals (three scored, two assisted) across six Champions League games. Raphinha, too, is in fine shape, with four goals this European season.

The estimated crowd at Olímpico Lluís Companys is 45,000, piling pressure on Benfica.

Spotlight on Barcelona’s Attack

Yamal remains the standout. At the 19th minute, he drove through the middle and tried to find Lewandowski, but the pass was overhit. Three minutes later, he fired from distance, rattling Trubin. His constant movement creates openings for Pedri and Dani Olmo, who dictate the midfield tempo.

Raphinha pairs well with Balde on the left, as seen in the 8th-minute chance ruled offside. Lewandowski, though goalless, stays active, controlling balls in the box and forcing saves from Trubin.

At the 25th minute, Pedri nearly extended the lead in a team move, but Benfica’s defense held firm.

Tactics on Display

  • Barcelona: The team relies on possession and its forwards’ speed to breach the opposition backline.
  • Benfica: The Portuguese side drops back to exploit counters and set pieces, like Otamendi’s goal.
  • Midfield Battle: Pedri and Dani Olmo face tight marking from Aursnes and Schjelderup.

Benfica’s Pressure Builds

At the 29th minute, Benfica earned a corner after a strong left-wing move. Aursnes sent it into the box, and Szczesny had to step up to deny an equalizer. Earlier, at the 12th minute, the team showcased its aerial prowess, with Otamendi punishing a defensive lapse.

The Portuguese outfit tries to quicken the pace down the flanks but struggles with Balde’s marking and imprecise passing, like Schjelderup’s offside run at the 7th minute.

Tactical balance keeps the game unpredictable, with both sides hunting for goals at every chance.

Recent Tournament History

Barcelona enters the match riding high after a 1-0 win in Portugal in the first leg. At home, the team has a strong Champions League record, with just one loss in its last 15 games. Benfica, however, struggles away, though its European experience makes it a tough foe.

First Half Details

As time ticks on, Barcelona holds possession, but Benfica persists. At the 20th minute, Dani Olmo shot wide after a Balde cross. At the 23rd minute, Yamal nearly added another with a long-range effort.

Benfica keeps pushing with set pieces. At the 29th minute, Aursnes crafted another chance, but Barcelona’s defense stays vigilant.

What’s at Stake

The match is pivotal for both teams’ Champions League ambitions. Barcelona wants a home win to cement its group standing, while Benfica hunts for away points to keep its knockout hopes alive.

The game rolls on, with Barcelona leading 2-1 at the 29th minute of the first half.

Tips and Trivia for Fans

  • Yamal is already likened to Messi for his dribbling and finishing flair.
  • Olímpico Lluís Companys hosts Barcelona while Camp Nou undergoes renovations.
  • Otamendi is the most seasoned player on the pitch, with over 100 European games.
  • Barcelona has the competition’s top attack so far, with 18 goals.

Stats and Key Figures

Barcelona has taken seven shots by the 29th minute, three on target. Benfica, more efficient, has three attempts, two dangerous. Possession mirrors Catalan control, but Benfica’s aerial game levels the playing field. Yamal leads with four completed dribbles, while Otamendi shines defensively with five clearances.

The 45,000-strong crowd is the largest at Olímpico Lluís Companys this season. Barcelona’s temperature at 14:45 is 18°C, perfect for high-octane football.

The Champions League 2024/2025 goal average is 2.8 per game, and this match already exceeds it.

Game Highlights So Far

  • Yamal’s 26th-minute screamer is a contender for the round’s best goal.
  • Benfica’s quick reply via Otamendi underlines its set-piece strength.
  • Raphinha and Balde form a lethal left-sided duo, generating constant threats.

Historical Context and Extra Info

The Barcelona-Benfica rivalry spans decades in European competition. In 1961, Benfica beat Barcelona 3-2 in the European Cup final, claiming its first continental title. Today, the stakes differ, but the intensity endures.

Olímpico Lluís Companys, built for the 1992 Olympics, is Barcelona’s temporary home, with a Camp Nou return slated for 2026.

Relentless Pace on the Pitch

At the 21st minute, Lewandowski nearly scored but was flagged offside after a Raphinha pass. Barcelona keeps pressing, while Benfica searches for defensive gaps. The match remains open, with chances aplenty.

Game Poised for Drama

With the score at 2-1, the first half still holds surprises. Barcelona aims to widen the gap, while Benfica fights for a leveler. Yamal, Raphinha, and Otamendi continue as the clash’s driving forces.

Numbers That Stand Out

Yamal has two direct goal involvements in this game (one goal, one assist). Barcelona holds 62% possession, but Benfica has converted one of its three shots. The tactical duel between coaches keeps things even.



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