The Spanish club "Barselona" faced the Portuguese team "Benfica" in the quarter-finals of the European Champions League. Although the only goal of the match was scored by Rafinha in the 61st minute, this victory held historical significance for "Barça".
Playing with a disadvantage for 69 minutes
The main turning point on the field occurred in the 22nd minute. Barselona's defender Pau Cubarsi was sent off by the referee for a foul play against an opposing striker. This forced "Barselona" to play with one less player for 69 minutes.
Nevertheless, "Barselona" managed to win even while playing with 10 players, marking the first time this has happened in the history of the European Champions League.
A victory after nine years on the road
This match was also memorable for "Barselona" as it marked another important milestone. The Catalans had the opportunity to win away in the European Champions League Round of 16 for the first time since February 23, 2016.
The last such occurrence was in 2016 against "Arsenal", where Lionel Messi scored a double to lead his team to victory.
"Barselona" holds an advantage in the return match
The Catalans gained a significant advantage before the return match with a minimal victory over "Benfica". Now, "Barselona" will rely on Brazilian Rafinha and the team's solid defense at their home ground "Camp Nou" as they fight for a place in the quarter-finals.
With this victory, "Barselona" once again etched its name in the history of the European Champions League. Even while playing with one less player for 69 minutes, the team demonstrated its skill and determination to secure an important victory. The current result gives "Barça" confidence to step towards even greater goals in the Champions League competition.
The prospect of "Barselona" maintaining its advantage or "Benfica" delivering an unexpected surprise in the return match is generating great interest.
