RAPHINHA TWO GOALS IN THE FIRST HALF FOR BARCELONA AS HIS BALLON D’OR CHARGE CONTINUES!!

Lamine Yamal’s incredible festival on Raphinha’s goal (VIDEO)

FC Barcelona delivered a breathtaking first-half performance against Benfica in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 clash, with Raphinha emerging as the hero of the night. The Brazilian winger showcased his attacking prowess by scoring twice before the break, putting the Catalan giants firmly in control of the match.

The opening goal came in the 11th minute, a moment of pure brilliance initiated by the young sensation Lamine Yamal. The 16-year-old winger danced past defenders with remarkable ease before delivering an inch-perfect cross to the far post. Waiting in position, Raphinha made no mistake, expertly volleying the ball into the net with his left foot. The Camp Nou erupted in celebration as Barcelona doubled their aggregate lead, pushing Benfica onto the back foot.

Barcelona’s relentless attacking momentum continued, and Raphinha was once again at the heart of it. Just before halftime, the Brazilian found himself in the right place at the right time to capitalize on a defensive lapse from Benfica. Alejandro Balde, surging forward from the left flank, whipped in a dangerous low cross that deflected off a defender. Reacting swiftly, Raphinha pounced on the loose ball and slotted it past the helpless goalkeeper, doubling his tally for the night.

His second goal further solidified Barcelona’s dominance, proving why he remains a crucial asset for Xavi’s attacking system. Benfica’s defense struggled to contain his movement, and his link-up play with Yamal and Balde wreaked havoc on their backline. The Brazilian’s clinical finishing ensured that Barcelona went into the break with a commanding 3-1 lead on the night, leaving the visitors with an uphill battle in the second half.

Raphinha’s brace not only put Barcelona on the brink of a quarter-final spot but also underlined his importance to the team in high-stakes European clashes. His ability to step up in crucial moments reaffirmed his role as a game-changer, giving the Catalans a much-needed boost in their pursuit of Champions League glory.

With the home crowd roaring in appreciation, Barcelona looked unstoppable heading into the second half, thanks to Raphinha’s decisive contributions in front of goal.