Barcelona delivered a resounding 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final, with Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha continuing their electric form this season. The trio have now scored a combined 82 goals across all competitions—surpassing the entire tally of Dortmund, who have 81.
From the opening minutes, Barcelona stamped their authority. Yamal forced a save within the first five minutes, followed by Lewandowski and Raphinha testing Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel soon after. The relentless pace reminded many of Brazil’s historic start against the USSR in the 1958 World Cup, with Barcelona relentlessly attacking from the outset.
Lewandowski struck twice, taking his tally to 40 goals in the season and 99 for Barcelona, becoming the first player in Europe’s top five leagues to hit such numbers this term. At 36, his form remains unmatched, averaging over one goal per match in 2024-25. His Champions League total since turning 35 now stands at 14—more than what Cristiano Ronaldo achieved in the same age bracket.
Raphinha was equally impactful, with a goal and two assists. His total goal contributions this season have now reached 48—exceeding the best seasons of club legends Rivaldo and Ronaldinho. With 12 goals and 7 assists in just 11 Champions League games, Raphinha has created a new benchmark in the competition’s history.
Barcelona’s high defensive line stifled Dortmund’s attack, despite efforts from Serhou Guirassy and Jamie Gittens. Meanwhile, teenage star Pau Cubarsi became the youngest defender to provide a Champions League assist at 18 years and 77 days. Yamal also netted his 14th goal of the season with a composed left-footed finish after pressing from Lewandowski and a pinpoint pass from Raphinha.
Despite injury setbacks and pre-season doubts over the squad’s depth and experience, Barcelona are leading La Liga, have reached the Copa del Rey final, and now appear set to enter their first Champions League semi-final since 2018-19. Coach Hansi Flick praised the team’s cohesion, saying, “When a team plays that well, goals normally flow.”
This frontline—Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Yamal—is drawing comparisons with the legendary MSN trio of Messi, Suarez, and Neymar. With 144 goals scored this season, Barcelona’s treble pursuit is alive and thriving.
