Cubarsí Sent Off After a Shocking Challenge Against Benfica – Footage Sparks Outrage! (VIDEO)

FC Barcelona faced SL Benfica in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 on March 5, 2025, at the Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica. The match was marked by a major turning point in the 22nd minute: the sending-off of young Barcelona center-back Pau Cubarsí.

It all began with a brilliant individual run by Benfica’s Greek forward, Vangelis Pavlidis. He managed to break through Barcelona’s defense at full speed, heading dangerously toward the goal. Cubarsí, as the last defender, felt compelled to intervene to stop the threat. However, his challenge was deemed illegal by the referee, who did not hesitate to show him a straight red card, leaving Barcelona down to ten men early in the match. (reuters.com)

The decision ignited heated debates on social media, with footage of the incident spreading rapidly and sparking controversy among fans and analysts. Some argued that the red card was harsh, while others believed it was justified, given the nature of the foul and Pavlidis’ position when the challenge occurred.

Following the dismissal, Barcelona’s head coach, Hansi Flick, had to react quickly to reorganize his team. He made the strategic decision to substitute attacking midfielder Dani Olmo for center-back Ronald Araújo, reinforcing the defense to compensate for the numerical disadvantage. (elpais.com)

Despite being reduced to ten men, Barcelona showed remarkable resilience throughout the match. The players doubled their efforts to make up for Cubarsí’s absence, maintaining a disciplined defensive setup while looking for counter-attacking opportunities.

Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was instrumental in Barcelona’s resistance. He pulled off several crucial saves, keeping his team in the game and denying Benfica’s persistent attacks. His performance was widely praised, with some commentators even calling it a redemption after some previous underwhelming displays. (cadenaser.com)

The game’s decisive moment came in the 61st minute. Taking advantage of a defensive mistake by Benfica, Brazilian winger Raphinha intercepted a sloppy pass and unleashed a low shot that was slightly deflected, beating the goalkeeper and giving Barcelona the lead. (reuters.com)

That goal energized the Blaugranas, who continued to defend their advantage fiercely. Every player gave their all, closing down spaces and preventing Benfica from executing their usual attacking plays. Barcelona’s teamwork and tactical discipline were exemplary during this critical phase.

On the other hand, frustration grew among the Benfica players. Despite their numerical superiority, the Lisbon side struggled to break through Barcelona’s well-organized defense. Attempts from Pavlidis and his teammates were repeatedly thwarted, leaving them frustrated.

Benfica’s coach tried to inject more attacking options by making several substitutions, but they failed to turn the tide. A lack of precision in the final third, coupled with Szczesny’s outstanding performance, prevented them from equalizing.

This hard-fought away victory puts Barcelona in a strong position ahead of the second leg at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. However, Cubarsí’s suspension for the return match will force Hansi Flick to rethink his defensive strategy.

Barcelona fans are hopeful that their team can replicate this performance at home to secure a place in the Champions League quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Benfica supporters still believe in a comeback and expect their team to show character in the return leg.

The debate over Cubarsí’s red card will likely continue to dominate discussions until the rematch. This incident serves as a reminder of how unpredictable football can be and how a single moment can change the course of a game.

For now, Barcelona will savor this well-earned victory while preparing for the decisive second leg. With so much at stake, both teams will need to be at their very best to keep their European dreams alive.

Barcelona’s heroic display in Lisbon will be remembered as yet another example of the drama and magic that define the Champions League.