After Martin Montoya replaced an injured Dani Alves in the 14th minute of a 4-0 victory at Levante, Barcelona had an entirely homegrown team for the first time in their history.
La Masia is known for its production of world-class talent even though in recent years Barcelona has focused on the transfer market more!
We've taken a look back at their side from that day to see how those players have fared since.
GK: Victor Valdes
After leaving Barcelona in 2014, Valdes had a brief stint in England with Manchester United and Middlesbrough before hanging up his gloves.
The 40-year-old then began a career in coaching and returned to Barcelona as their Under-19s manager in 2019 but was sacked after just 80 days in charge.
Valdes then spent a few months in charge of Spanish fourth division side UA Horte, before leaving his post in March 2021. He then reportedly rejected an offer from president Joan Laporta to return as a goalkeeping coach.
RB: Martin Montoya
Montoya was unable to usurp Dani Alves on a regular basis and joined Valencia in 2016 following the expiration of his contract with Barcelona.
The right-back spent two years at the Mestalla before moving to the Premier League with Brighton in 2018.
He made 56 appearances for the Seagulls but eventually fell behind Tariq Lamptey in the pecking order and returned to Spain with Real Betis in 2020.
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 6, 2020
Pique has remained an ever-present at the heart of the Barcelona defence and has since notched up over 600 appearances for the club. Only four players have made more – all of them in this team.
Puyol eventually hung up his boots at the end of the 2013-14 season, having won 18 titles during his 15-year career in the Barcelona first team.
He initially stayed on with the club and was appointed as their assistant director of football but resigned a few months later.
The 44-year-old now runs an agency alongside fellow La Masia graduate Ivan de la Pena and rejected an offer to become Barcelona's sporting director in 2019. A return to the club, to work alongside Xavi and Laporta in some capacity, has been rumoured – but nothing is yet confirmed.
LB: Jordi Alba
Alba spent seven years at the La Masia youth academy before developing into one of the best left-backs in Europe while at Valencia.
He has won five league titles, five Spanish Cups and the Champions League since returning to the Nou Camp in 2012 and is still one of the first names on the team sheet.
Since breaking into the first team under Pep Guardiola in 2008, Busquets has won everything there is to win at the Camp Nou.
Despite increased competition from Frenkie de Jong, the 33-year-old remains an integral part of their team and has made over 100 appearances over the past two seasons.
"I have never seen myself anywhere else," Busquets told Diario Sport in November 2018.
"I have always said I won't be better off anywhere else. Me and the club are made for each other. I can enjoy being at home, at the best club in the world, with the best players, fighting for titles every year… winning the majority. There's practically nowhere else you can do that."
Busquets is now the club captain following the departure of Lionel Messi.
CM: Xavi
After lifting the Champions League trophy on his 767th and final appearance for Barcelona, Xavi joined Qatari club Al Sadd in 2015.
The midfielder won the Qatar Stars League, the Sheikh Jassim Cup, the Qatar Cup and the Qatari Super Cup during his four years with the club. Oh, and the Qatar lottery. He became their manager after retiring in 2019, and is now – inevitably – back in the hot seat at the Camp Nou.
CM: Cesc Fabregas
Having left La Masia for Arsenal as just a boy, Fabregas starred in the Premier League before returning to Barcelona in 2011.
The Spain international failed to establish himself as a first-team regular, however, and moved back to London with Chelsea in 2014.
After winning two Premier League titles during a four-and-a-half-year spell with the Blues, the 35-year-old is now a free agent after leaving Monaco earlier this summer.
RW: Pedro
Despite scoring 99 goals in 321 appearances for Barcelona, Pedro was deemed surplus to requirements in 2015 and reunited with Fabregas at Chelsea.
The forward continued to collect honours at Stamford Bridge, winning the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League before joining Roma on a free transfer in 2020.
Pedro's still turning out at the Stadio Olimpico now – but for Roma's city rivals Lazio.
Messi was breaking records and scoring incredible goals for Barcelona back 2012. Not much changed over the following nine years, before his shock exit to PSG in 2021 amid the club's financial implosion.
LW: Andres Iniesta
Iniesta brought an end to his 22-year association with Barcelona in 2018, having won nine La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.
The midfielder joined Vissel Kobe on a free transfer and led the Japanese side to their first piece of silverware when they won the Emperor's Cup in January 2020.
"Right now, I'm trying to extend my playing career as much as possible, I want to kick a ball for as long as I can because that's what makes me happy," Iniesta told the Guardian in April 2020.
He's since reached over 100 appearances for the Japanese club and has extended his current deal in Japan until 2023.
For more lists and articles on FC Barcelona, follow Sportz Point.
Discover the 15 most decorated football clubs in the world, boasting legendary teams with the highest number of trophies, from domestic leagues to international glory.
Success in football comes in circles, as good times come and go for every club, but some clubs have had far more consistent runs than the others. Many clubs have had generations of success through each era of football and multiple competitions.
Understanding that every title, cup, and league win has a backdrop is essential. Here is the full list of the clubs boasting their trophy cabinets.
15 most decorated clubs in world football:
RANK
CLUBS
TROPHIES
NATION
1.
Al-Ahly
123
Egypt
2.
Celtic FC
119
Scotland
3.
Rangers
118
Scotland
4.
Club Nacional de Football
117
Uruguay
5.
Atletico Penarol
116
Uruguay
6.
Real Madrid
102
Spain
7.
FC Barcelona
98
Spain
8.
SL Benfica
85
Portugal
9.
FC Porto
85
Portugal
10.
Al-Faisaly
84
Saudi Arab
11.
FC Bayern Munich
83
Germany
12.
Olympiacos
80
Greece
13.
Ajax
73
Netherlands
14.
Juventus
71
Italy
15.
Manchester United
68
England
15. Manchester United | 68 Trophies | England:
Image Credit: Give Me Sport
If you say "Theatre of Dreams", "Old Trafford", or the "Busby Babes" to someone, there is only one club that comes to mind: Manchester United. The Red Devils are cementing their place in the most decorated club's hall of fame with 68 trophies, right from the Busby Babes Munich air disaster in 1958 to Sir Alex Ferguson's Class of 92. Icons like Sir Bobby Charlton to the modern heroes like Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo have clothed the famous red jersey.
While the club has struggled to reach the heights of the 1990s to 2000s in recent years, The Red Devils are one of the most successful clubs in England, winning three UEFA Champions Leagues to their name, one of the best teams to have ever played in Europe as well.
3x UEFA Champions League winner (1967-68, 1998-99, 2007-08)
1x UEFA Super Cup Winner (1991-92)
1x UEFA Europa Cup Winner (2016-17)
1x Cup Winners Cup (1990-91)
13x FA Cup Winner (23/24, 15/16, 03/04, 98/99, 95/96, 93/94, 89/90, 84/85, 82/83, 76/77, 62/63, 47/48, 1908/09)
21x English Super Cup winner (16/17, 13/14, 11/12, 10/11, 08/09, 07/08, 03/04, 97/98 , 96/97, 94/95, 93/94, 90/91, 83/84, 77/78, 67/68, 65/66, 57/58, 56/57, 52/53, 1911/12, 1908/09)
6x English League Cup Winner (22/23 , 16/17 , 09/10 , 08/09 , 05/06 , 91/92)
2x English 2nd Tier Champions (74/75, 35/36)
1x Inter Continental Cup Winner (1999)
14. Juventus | 71 Trophies | Italy:
Image Credit: Dreams Time
Juventus is undoubtedly one of the most decorated clubs in world football and Italy too. From Dino Zoff to Alessandro Del Piero, this Italian heavyweight has been home to some of the biggest footballing stars ever produced, who have helped to add moments that collectively tell the tale of their 71 trophies. Not many clubs can boast about the fact that the Turin giant was formed by a group of grammar school students who turned into one of the biggest clubs in world football. A fascinating back story with a thrilling journey.
2x UEFA Champions League winners (1984-85, 1995-96)
2x UEFA Super Cup (1984-85, 1996-97)
9x Italian Super Cup Winner (20/21 , 18/19 , 15/16 , 13/14 , 12/13 , 03/04 , 02/03 , 97/98 , 95/96)
2x UEFA Cup Winner (92/93 , 89/90 , 76/77)
1x Italian Serie B Champion (2006-07)
2x Intercontinental Cup Winner (1996, 1985)
13. Ajax | 73 Trophies | Netherlands:
Image Credit:X
Ajax are a wonderful football club, and their story is represented in as much as one word: innovation. The birthplace of 'Modern Football', their academy, De Toekomst, has been a messenger of talents. From Johan Cruyff to Frenkie de Jong. Their 73 trophies, including their European exploits, show their philosophy that prioritizes skill and vision.
The club has been massively successful in their 123-year history, winning four Champions League crowns, three of which were won in a row, as well as 36 Eredivisie crowns, which makes this club one of the most decorated clubs in world football.
Olympiacos is known to have a hugely intimidating home atmosphere when visiting teams come to their ground, the Karaiskakis Stadium. Despite only holding 33,334 fans, it's a well-known fortress for the home team. There's no doubt that they have dominated Greek football since their inception in 1925. From legendary figures to the current team, it has helped the club propel them to 80 trophies and cemented their name into one of the most decorated clubs.
4x Greek Super Cup Winner (2006/07, 91/92, 86/87, 1979/80)
1x UEFA Conference League Winner (2023-24)
11. FC Bayern Munich | 83 Trophies | Germany:
Image Credit: FCB Inside
Bayern's unparalleled streak of 11 consecutive titles came to an end in 2023-24 when the club slipped to third in Bayer Leverkusen's 'invincible' season. Vincent Kompany will be looking to change fortunes and restore Bayern to the top of German football. From their Allianz Arena, a modern-day stadium, they have showcased a brand of football that is both efficient and elegant. Bayern Munich is one of the most decorated clubs in Germany and world football too.
10x German Super Cup Winner (22/23 , 21/22 , 20/21 , 18/19 , 17/18 , 16/17 , 12/13 , 10/11 , 90/91 , 87/88)
6x League Cup Winner (07/08 , 04/05 , 00/01 , 99/00 , 98/99 , 97/98)
South German Cup Winner (1956-57)
2x Intercontinental Cup Winner (2001, 1976)
2X UEFA Super Cup Winner (20/21 , 13/14)
6x UEFA Champions League Winner (1975/76, 74/75, 73/74, 2019/20, 2012/13, 2000/01)
2x FIFA Club World Cup Winner (20/21, 13/14)
1x UEFA Cup Winner (1995-96)
10. Al-Faisaly | 84 Trophies | Saudi Arab:
Image Credit: The AFC
Not a familiar name in world football, but Al-Faisaly is one of the most decorated clubs in world football. In 91 years of their existence as a football club, formerly known as Al-Ashbal Club, they have won 35 league titles and 21 Jordan FA Cups, although domestic success has been more limited in recent years. The club is yet to have any success on the AFC stage.
From the banks of the Douro River, FC Porto has risen as Portugal's footballing flare and one of the most decorated clubs in world football. This is the football club that gave us players such as Deco, Ricardo Carvalho and, of course, the hero Benni McCarthy. After the 2004 season's UEFA Champions League winning campaign, Porto haven't seen any success in Europe since, they have still managed to win 30 Primeira Liga titles, 19 Taca de Portugal, two European Cups and two Europa Leagues during their 130-year history.
2x UEFA Champions League Winner (2003-04, 1986-87)
1x UEFA Super Cup Winner (1987-88)
2x Intercontinental Cup Winner (2004, 1987)
8. SL Benfica | 85 Trophies | Portugal:
Image Credit: SL Benfica
SL Benfica is one of the most decorated football clubs in Portugal and globally. The club has given birth to some absolute icons in the sport. Eusebio, winner of the 1965 Ballon d'Or, was representing Benfica when he achieved this phenomenal feat. Modern-day players such as Angel Di Maria, Darwin Nunez, David Luiz and Nemanja Matic are just a few names that have come and gone from the Portuguese outfit over the years. With 85 trophies, incredibly, the nation's two powerhouses are tied for trophy hauls.
2x UEFA Champions League Winner (1961/62, 1960/61)
7. FC Barcelona | 98 Trophies | Spain:
Image Credit: Mirror
There is no denying that Barcelona's most successful period was the late 2000s and into the 2010s, led by the genius Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest player to ever kick a football and helped to make one of the most decorated clubs in world football. Their 98-trophy tally does not just recount victories but also moments that changed Spanish football. Camp Nou has been the hub of 'tiki-taka' football - a poetic style, enchanting and uniquely Barcelona's.
3x Inter-Cities fair cup Winners (65/66 , 59/60 , 57/58)
6. Real Madrid | 102 Trophies | Spanish:
Image Credit: Managing Madrid
Real Madrid has made the Santiago Bernabeu a theatre of dreams for fans and a place of nightmares for rivals. Madrid boasts an astonishing 15 UEFA Champions League titles to their name, seven more than any other team has won in the competition's history. Los Blancos is the most decorated club in Spain showcasing 102 trophies.
Just missing out on the top four is one of the most decorated clubs of South American football, Atletico Penarol. Why is this club so special and represents why they have been so successful over the years, is that they have never been relegated from the top division in Uruguay since being founded in 1891. It is a witness to longevity and consistent excellence. With a total of 116 trophies, they are not just Uruguayan legends.
3x Intercontinental Cup Winner (1982 , 1966 , 1961)
4. Club Nacional de Football | 117 Trophies | Uruguay:
Image Credit: X
Club Nacional de Football tales of dominance are South American epics, which makes them the most decorated clubs in South America. However, in their long and storied 125-year history, they have won 49 Primera Division crowns in their homeland. The well-documented side from Uruguay boasts 116 trophies and is iconic in its own right.
3x Intercontinental Cup Winner (1988 , 1980 , 1971)
1x Recopa SudAmericana winner (1989)
3. Rangers |118 Trophies | Scotland:
Image Credit: Give Me Sport
Rangers have marginally fewer trophies to their city rivals Celtic with 55 Scottish first-tier League Championships since 1890 and that's why they are the second most decorated clubs in Scottish Premiership. With their home one of the most famous stadiums in the British Isles in the form of Ibrox, it is no wonder they have managed such glory when they can create such an atmosphere.
Celtic Park, also known as Parkhead, and renowned for its thrilling atmosphere, has seen countless memories created in the club's 137-year history. Because of their dominance, they are the most decorated club in Scottish football. Celtic were the first club in Great Britain to win the European Cup.
Al-Ahly tops this list and becomes the most decorated club in world football with 123 trophies. With a legacy stretching back to 1907 and 123 trophies to their name, they are more than Egyptian legends; they are global titans. They have won 43 Egyptian Premier League titles, 39 Egypt Cups, 12 CAF Champions Leagues, 14 Egyptian Super Cups, eight CAF Super Cups and four African Cup Winners' Cups, just to name a few. They are essentially the African version of Real Madrid and continue to dominate Egyptian domestic football to this day.
FC Barcelona vs Benfica UEFA Champions League 2024-25 | Match Preview, Head-to-head, Possible Lineups and Fantasy XI Prediction
Read the full match preview, head-to-head stats, possible starting lineups, and Fantasy XI Prediction of FC Barcelona vs Benfica UEFA Champions League 2024-25 RO16 second leg match on 11 March 2025 at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium.
Raphinha scored the winner against Benfica in the first leg.
The UEFA Champions League 2024-25 Round of 16 Second Leg encounters are knocking on the doors, offering some of the most decisive encounters this season, potentially setting up some big match-ups in the quarters.
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 10, 2025
After a slender victory in the first-leg encounter, FC Barcelona will host Benfica at home at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium on 11 March 2025, for the second-leg encounter in the UCL 2024-25 RO16.
The Blaugranas were down to ten men following Pau Cubarsi's early send off. However, Wojciech Szczęsny's spectacular performance with eight saves along with Raphinha's beautiful finish secured the lead for Barcelona against Benfica in this crucial R016 tie.
From possible starting XIs to Fantasy predictions, here is everything you need to know about FC Barcelona vs Benfica's second leg of the Round of 16 matchin the UEFA Champions League 2024-25.
The match will be streamed Live on the Sony Liv app and website. Viewers can also watch the game live on TV on Sony Sports Network.
Team News
FC Barcelona
(Image Credit | Getty Images)
On March 6th, Barcelona managed a narrow 1-0 victory at the Estadio da Luz, taking the lead in this RO16 tie against Benfica.
Raphinha netted a thunderous strike in the 61st minute to ensure Barca's victory after getting down to ten men, while Wojciech Szczęsny produced a masterclass at goal, providing eight crucial saves throughout the game.
Wojciech Szczęsny was brilliant in the first leg. (Image Credit | Reuters)
Barcelona have not played any matches recently, as their LaLiga game against Osasuna was postponed. This postponement came after Barcelona requested it due to the tragic passing of first-team doctor Carles Miñarro, hours before the Osasuna match.
The players and coaching staff observed a minute's silence before Sunday’s training at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, whereas Benfica manager Bruno Lage also extended his condolences to Barcelona.
Despite the difficult atmosphere at the club, the Catalan side will do their best against Benfica to enter the quarter-finals for the second consecutive season.
There are days when football takes a back seat. Carles, you will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/mhvGQznPxe
However, coach Hansi Flick must find the defensive combination without Pau Cubarsi, who got suspended following the red card in the first leg. Andres Christensen suffered a fresh injury while Marc Andre Ter Stegen and Marc Bernal are recovering from the long-term injuries. On the contrary, Gavi is expected to be back in the squad.
🚨ℹ️ L’UEFA a accepté à requête du Barça pour qu’aucun joueur ne se présente en conférence de presse avant le match face à Benfica. Le Club souhaite protéger le groupe et c’est Hansi Flick qui répondra aux questions des journalistes.
Benfica must have been disappointed to suffer a narrow defeat in last week's home match. The Eagles failed to capitalize on Cubarsi's red card, losing at home to Barcelona for the second time this season, having previously experienced a shocking 4-5 defeatto them in a league phase match last January.
However, Benfica will travel to Spain following a 3-0 victory against Nacional in Liga Portugal this weekend, helping themselves to boost confidence before the decisive second leg encounter.
The Portuguese side will leave no stone unturned to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League since their consecutive quarter-final finishes in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons.
Manager Bruno Lage will have to field a competitive eleven against Barca without the services of Angel Di Maria, Alexander Bah, Manu Silva and Tiago Gouveia. Tomas Araujo is still doubtful for the game, while Alvaro Carreras will be suspended for accumulation of yellow cards.
Head-to-head Stats
Barcelona have only lost one of their last 10 games against Benfica in European competition (W5 D4), while they are unbeaten in the four occasions when they’ve hosted the Portuguese side (W2 D2)
On the other hand, Benfica haven’t won any of their four away games against Barcelona in European competition (D2 L2), while they’ve failed to score a goal in each of the last three.
Matches played: 11
Barcelona won: 5
Benfica won: 2
Draws: 4
Possible Playing XI
FC Barcelona
Wojciech Szczęsny (GK); Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Inigo Martinez, Aljeandro Balde; Dani Olmo, Frenkie De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski
Benfica
Anatoliy Trubin (GK); Leandro Santos, Antonio Silva, Nicolas Otamendi, Samuel Dahl; Fredrik Aursnes, Leandro Barreiro, Orkun Kökçü; Kerem Aktürkoğlu, Andreas Schjelderup, Vangelis Pavlidis
UEFA Champions League 2024-25 Round of 16 First Leg Round Up: Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid snatch narrow wins; Bayern, Arsenal are halfway into the Quarters
Liverpool, Barcelona, and Real Madrid snatch narrow wins, whereas Bayern and Arsenal are halfway into the quarter-finals after the UEFA Champions League 2024-25 Round of 16 First Leg.
Following the conclusion of the UEFA Champions League 2024-25Round of 16 First Leg, we can presume the potential entrants into the UCL quarter-finals, whereas the fate of some match-ups will be decided in the second leg.
Liverpool, the league phase leaders, managed a hard-fought 1-0 win against PSG; whereas ten-men Barcelona snatched a narrow 1-0 victory over Benfica. Real Madrid emerged victorious by 2-1 in the Madrid Derby against Atletico Madrid.
On the contrary, Bayern Munich thrashed Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 and Arsenal ran riot over PSV, winning 7-1 to practically secure their advancement to the next round of the competition.
UEFA Champions League 2024-25 Round of 16 First Leg Round Up
Club Brugge 1-3 Aston Villa
(Image Source | X)
Aston Villa salvaged two late goals to triumph 3-1 over Club Brugge in the first leg of the RO16 tie at the Jan Breydel Stadium in Bruges, Belgium.
Leon Bailey opened the account for Aston Villa in only three minutes into the game. Club Brugge quickly answered with Maxim De Cuyper scoring in the 12th minute.
However, Bruges defender Brandon Mechele scored a cheeky own goal to hand Villa the lead in the 82nd minute. Following that, Marco Asensio scored from the spot in the 88th minute, securing a two-goal lead for Aston Villa in the first leg.
Real Madrid impressively managed a 2-1 victory in the first leg of the 'Madrid Derby' against Atletico Madrid, in one of the biggest fixtures of UCL 2024-25 RO16 this season.
Rodrygo scored a spectacular goal from Los Blancos in the fourth minute of the game, with Julian Alvarez canceling it out with another world-class strike in the 32nd minute.
However, Brahim Diaz scored the winner for Real Madrid in the 55th minute to hand Atletico a one-goal deficit ahead of the second leg.
Arsenal ran demolition over PSV, crushing the Dutch side 7-1 in the first leg at the Philips Stadion in Eindhoven, Netherlands, practically securing their quarter-final tickets.
Jurrien Timber opened the scoring for Arsenal in the 18th minute, as Ethan Nwaneri doubled the lead in the 21st minute. Mikel Merino extended the lead in the 31st minutes, but PSV pulled off a goal from Noa Lang's spotkick in the 43rd minute.
Arsenal's scoring spree continued in the second half, with Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard scoring consecutively in the 47th and the 48th minute. Odegaard completed his brace in the 73rd minute, and Ricardo Calafiori put the final coffin on the nail in the 85th minute.
Borussia Dortmund 1-1 LOSC
(Image Source | BVB)
Borussia Dortmund and Lille OSC shared an exciting 1-1 stalemate in the first leg at the Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, with everything to play for in the second leg.
Karim Adeyemi netted an absolute banger in the 22nd minute of the match. Following that, Borussia found the equalizer in the 68th minute with Haraldsson tapping the ball home.
Feyenoord 0-2 Inter Milan
(Image Source | X)
Inter Milan earned a dominant first-leg lead over Feyenoord, winning 2-0 in Rotterdam to manage a two-goal cushion ahead of the reverse fixture.
Marcus Thuram found the breakthrough for Inter in the 38th minute with a volleyed strike. Shortly after the break, Lautaro Martinez doubled the Nerazzurri's lead with a superb strike, also becoming Inter's all-time leading goalscorer in UCL.
The Italian outfit were close to adding a third goal from the spot, but Piotr Zieliński's penalty was well saved by Feyenoord custodian Timon Wellenreuther.
Bayern Munich 3-0 Bayer Leverkusen
(Image Source | X)
Bayern Munich eased past Bayer Leverkusen in the first-ever all-German tie in the UCL, beating the Bundesliga counterparts 3-0 at the Allianz Arena.
Harry Kane opened the account for Bayern only nine minutes into the game, scoring a powerful header. In the 54th minute, Jamal Musiala extended the lead as he slashed it home from a rebound.
Leverkusen defender Nordi Mukiele was shown a second yellow and was sent off in the 62nd minute, resulting in the third goal for Bayern. Harry Kane completed his brace in the 75th minute by scoring from the penalty spot to hand Bayern a comfortable victory.
Keeper Wojciech Szczęsny's trusted gloves resisted the fall of a ten-men FC Barcelona against Benfica in the first leg at Estádio da Luz, leading them to a slender 1-0 victory.
Defender Pau Cubarsi was sent off in the 22nd minute of the game, following a straight red card. Barcelona were down to ten men, but Wojciech Szczęsny became unbreakable beneath the sticks, making a massive eight saves on the way.
The only goal of the match came off Raphinha's magical feet, as the Brazilian found the back of the net with a sublime long-ranger strike that went past Trubin through the left-bottom corner.
PSG 0-1 Liverpool
(Image Source | X)
It was another Champions League classic at Parc des Princes as Liverpool salvaged a narrow 1-0 victory against Paris Saint-Germain in an electric encounter.
Liverpool custodian Alisson Becker became absolute impregnable against continuous efforts from PSG attackers, especially Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Alisson was only beaten once in the 20th minute, when a marvellous curler from Kvaratskhelia ended up in the net, but was cancelled for offside.
Alisson made nine saves in the whole game, whereas Liverpool earned the winning goal in the 87th minute as Harvey Elliot fired his strike past Donnarumma, only 47 seconds after coming off the bench.
Benfica vs FC Barcelona UEFA Champions League 2024-25 Round of 16 Highlights: Raphinha's strike helps 10 men Barcelona beat Benfica by 1-0
Read the Benfica vs FC Barcelona UEFA Champions League 2024-25 Round of 16 highlights as Raphinha's strike helped 10-men Barcelona defeat Benfica by 1-0 in the first leg
Hello and welcome to another UEFA Champions League night. Tonight we will be covering the first leg of the round of sixteen fixture between Benfica and FC Barcelona.
Last time when these two teams faced each other, Barcelona enjoyed a 5-4 win over the Portuguese giants. What was more remarkable was that Barcelona were down and out by 2-4 and then went on to win the match.
So, with Benfica looking to take their revenge on their own turf, this promises to be an exciting battle. This is Koushik Biswas who will bring you all the live updates of the Benfica vs FC Barcelona match.
Enjoy the coverage.
LIVE Updates
Mar 5, 2025, 7:58 PM
LIVE Score!
Mar 5, 2025, 10:02 PM
Full-time | Benfica 0-1 Barcelona
Barcelona have done it.
They lost one man in the 22nd minute of the match and they not only survived the game, they won the game by 1-0.
Antonio Silva's misplaced pass gave Raphinha a half-chance to score and the Brazilian made sure he hands Barcelona an advantage going into the second leg.
Szczęsny was another hero for Barcelona with multiple saves throughout the game.
That's it from my side. Good night and see you in the second leg.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:59 PM
90+4' | Save from Szczęsny
Sanches with a on-target shot from outside the box and Szczęsny dived to his left to make the save.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:55 PM
90+1' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Rego for a foul on Pedri.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:55 PM
4 minutes added
4 minutes added as injury time.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:53 PM
89' | Rego with a bi-cycle kick
Acrobatic from Rego as he wins another corner for Benfica.
Three in a row for them now.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:53 PM
88' | Chance for Benfica
A fully stretched Rego could not get the touch he was looking for at the far post. It goes for a corner.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:49 PM
84' | Double change for Benfica
Kokcu and Pavlidis are replaced by Sanches and Cabral.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:48 PM
82' | Belloti is offside
Ouuuuuuu!
Touch and go here as Belotti was pulled down by Szczęsny inside the box.
But, the replay and VAR showed that he was already offside leading the incident.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:43 PM
78' | Double change for Barcelona
De Jong and Lewandowski are replaced by Martin and Casado.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:42 PM
77' | Save from Szczęsny
Save from the Barcelona goalkeeper as he denied Aktürkoğlu with a diving save.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:41 PM
76' | Araujo with an interception
Great positioning from the Barcelona captain as he intercepted another effort from Benfica.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:38 PM
73' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Carreras for a foul on Kounde. He will miss the next match.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:36 PM
70' | Double change for Benfica
Rego and Belotti replaced Schjelderup and Barreiro..
Mar 5, 2025, 9:35 PM
69' | Handball
Barcelona defenders are celebrating every win inside the box. Aktürkoğlu handed the ball and Barcelona won a free-kick as they negotiated with another danger.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:33 PM
67' | Save from Szczęsny
Save from Szczęsny as Aursnes tried to send the ball between the defenders from inside the box.
A mistake from Antonio Silva gave a half-chance to the Brazilian who made them pay with a thunderous strike from the edge of the box.
9 goals in 9 UCL games for Raphinha this season.
Barcelona take the lead.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:24 PM
60' | Barcelona have a corner
Time to time, Barcelona have tried to break free from the flanks.
This time Kounde made a good run to get to the ball and then win the corner.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:22 PM
57' | Change for Benfica
Tomas Araujo is replaced by Dahl.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:20 PM
56' | Change for Barcelona
Yamal is replaced by Ferran Torres.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:17 PM
52' | Block from Carreras
Carreras blocks Yamal's shot from the left of the box.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:16 PM
51' | Szczęsny makes another save
He keeps on making those saves.
This time he denies Aursnes from close range.
Mar 5, 2025, 9:15 PM
50' | Chance for Benfica
Huge chance and their best so far in the second half. Pavlidis misses an easy chance from a close range. Schjelderup with the cutback for the Greek star.
Subs: Samuel Soares, Cabral, Belotti, Prestianni, Dahl, Nuno Félix, Leandro Santos, Hugo Félix, A. Bajrami, João Rego, Renato Sanches, Diogo Prioste.
Mar 5, 2025, 7:03 PM
Lineups | Barcelona
XI: Szczęsny, Cubarsí, Balde, Iñigo Martínez, Pedri, Lewandowski, Raphinha, Yamal, Olmo, F. de Jong (c), Koundé.
Subs: Iñaki Peña, Kochen, Ronald Araújo, Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati, Pablo Torre, Fermín López, Marc Casadó, Pau Víctor, Eric García, Héctor Fort, Gerard Martín.
Mar 5, 2025, 3:26 PM
Recent form | Benfica
27/02/25 – Benfica 1-0 Sporting Braga (Taça de Portugal)
22/02/25 – Benfica 3-0 Boavista (Liga Portugal Betclic)
19/02/25 – Benfica 3-3 AS Monaco (UEFA Champions League)
15/02/25 – Santa Clara 0-1 Benfica (Liga Portugal Betclic)
13/02/25 – AS Monaco 0-1 Benfica (UEFA Champions League)
08/02/25 – Benfica 3-2 Moreirense (Liga Portugal Betclic)
Mar 5, 2025, 3:24 PM
Recent form | FC Barcelona
02/03/25 – Barcelona 4-0 Real Sociedad (LaLiga)
26/02/25 – Barcelona 4-4 Atlético Madrid (Copa del Rey)
23/02/25 – Las Palmas 0-2 Barcelona (LaLiga)
18/02/25 – Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano (LaLiga)
10/02/25 – Sevilla 1-4 Barcelona (LaLiga)
07/02/25 – Valencia 0-5 Barcelona (Copa del Rey)
02/02/25 – Barcelona 1-0 Deportivo Alavés (LaLiga)
30/01/25 – Barcelona 2-2 Atalanta (UEFA Champions League)
Mar 5, 2025, 3:19 PM
UCL Meetings | Benfica vs FC Barcelona
31 May 1961 – Benfica 3-2 Barcelona (1960/61 European Cup Final)
20 March 1992 – Barcelona 2-1 Benfica (1991/92 European Cup Group Stage)
27 September 2005 – Benfica 0-0 Barcelona (2005/06 Champions League Quarter-finals)
5 April 2006 – Barcelona 2-0 Benfica (2005/06 Champions League Quarter-finals)
2 October 2012 – Benfica 0-2 Barcelona (2012/13 Champions League Group Stage)
5 December 2012 – Barcelona 0-0 Benfica (2012/13 Champions League Group Stage)
29 September 2021 – Benfica 3-0 Barcelona (2021/22 Champions League Group Stage)
23 November 2021 – Barcelona 0-0 Benfica (2021/22 Champions League Group Stage)
22 January 2025 – Benfica 4-5 Barcelona (2024/25 Champions League League Phase)
Mar 5, 2025, 3:15 PM
Benfica vs Barcelona Head-to-Head in UCL
Team
Wins
Draws
Goals
Benfica
2
4
11
Barcelona
4
4
13
Mar 5, 2025, 3:10 PM
How to watch the match?
The match will be streamed Live on the Sony Liv app and website with a paid subscription. Viewers can also watch the game live on TV on Sony Sports Network.
Mar 5, 2025, 3:10 PM
Tonight's venue | Estádio da Luz
Mar 5, 2025, 3:10 PM
Match Details
Match: Benfica vs FC Barcelona - UEFA Champions League 2024-25 League Match
What Salah is doing, Messi did it 13 times in his career! Here are the stats
What Mohamed Salah is doing now is what Lionel Messi has done 13 times in his career. Here are the stats of Lionel Messi's 50+ Goal Contributions in seasons, which prove his G.O.A.T status.
For his part, Mohamed Salah has been dazzling the football world with astonishing performances and record-breaking feats. Just recently, he accomplished something incredible that had fans and analysts all in madness.
The only thing more incredible about this is that Lionel Messi has reached this insane milestone 13 times in his career. This gives a sense of Messi’s consistency, of course, a level that few, if anyone could have matched, and context to Salah’s achievement. Let’s break down the stats, and how the two superstars compare.
Mohamed Salah's 2024-25 season so far:
Mohamed Salah is set to break the Premier League's all-time goal-scoring records | Image Credit: First Sportz
The Egyptian Talisman scored his 25th goal of the 2024-25 Premier League season in Liverpool's 2-0 win over Manchester City. Liverpool is at the top of the table and 11 points ahead of the second-placed Arsenal.
The Red's remarkable season has been led by Mohamed Salah, whose strike at the Etihad put his team in front and made it 25 goals for this season- six ahead of the Golden Boot contenders, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland.
Mohamed Salah's UCL 2024-25 Stats:
Matches Played: 7*
Goals: 3*
Assists: 4*
Goal Contribution: 7*
Total Attempts: 25*
Mohammed Salah's Premier League 2024-25 Stats:
Matches Played: 27*
Goals: 25*
Assists: 16*
Goal Contribution: 41*
Lionel Messi's 13 seasons with 50+ Goal Contributions:
Lionel Messi has made 50+ Goal contributions in a single season 13 times in his whole career | Image Credit: Marca
No player in football history has a better rate or more consistency in front of goal than Lionel Messi.Messi's record of 50+ goal contributions (goals + assists) in a single season 13 times, most famously his 105 Goal Contribution in 2011-12 season.
Messi has maintained the best level of performance. His ability to score and assist with such solidity across different leagues. From his early years at Barcelona to his later success, Messi’s impact on the game has been unparalleled, making him without doubt one of the greatest players to ever play the game.