Yamal & Raphinha Shine as Barca Defeats Benfica to Reach UCL QuarterFinals

Lamine Yamal and Raphinha once again starred in the show as Barcelona defeated Benfica to advance to the quarterfinals of the Champions League. 

The 17-year-old forward provided a brilliant assist for Raphinha to open the scoring before being on the receiving end, scoring his only goal in the 27th minute, making the scoreline 2-1 on the night and 3-1 on aggregate. 

Nicolas Otamendi's superb header equalized after Raphinha's opening goal, but Benfica's aspirations faded due to Yamal's brilliance. Raphinha then scored again with a precise finish into the bottom corner. 

There was initial uncertainty about Raphinha's second goal, as it seemed the play had been halted for a foul by Otamendi near the box. However, after a review by the video assistant referee (VAR), the goal was allowed, and Otamendi's yellow card was overturned. 

Though Yamal dazzled fans with his exceptional plays, Raphinha also warrants recognition; his two goals have brought his Champions League tally to 16 this season. Only Lionel Messi, who had 14 goals and five assists in 2011-12, has been involved in more goals for Barcelona in a single Champions League season than Raphinha, who boasts 11 goals and five assists.

Barcelona could have won by an even larger scoreline, but Frenkie de Jong squandered a prime opportunity to net a fourth, shooting wide from close range after an exquisite team move. 

Hansi Flick's prime team will meet either Borussia Dortmund or Lille in the quarter-finals.