Hansi Flick’s side extends winning streak in the Champions League group stage
Barcelona dominated Crvena Zvezda in a commanding 5-2 victory in Belgrade, with standout performances from Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. The win keeps Hansi Flick’s Barcelona on track for the Champions League knockout stages, while the Serbian team’s chances of advancing have all but disappeared.
Barcelona started strong, with defender Iñigo Martínez opening the scoring early with a header from a corner. Crvena Zvezda responded in the 27th minute when Silas broke the offside trap to level the score. However, just before halftime, Lewandowski finished a well-orchestrated move to put the Catalans back in the lead.
In the second half, Lewandowski struck again, converting a precise cross from Jules Kounde. Moments later, Raphinha extended Barcelona’s lead to 4-1, and substitute Fermin Lopez added a fifth goal, also assisted by Kounde. Crvena Zvezda managed to pull one back with a stunning curling shot from Milson, but it was not enough to shift the outcome.
Barcelona now leads their group with nine points, inching closer to the knockout rounds, while Crvena Zvezda remains without a point. The night saw Lewandowski, whose form seemed uncertain at the start of the season, score his 18th and 19th goals for Barcelona under Flick’s management. With 99 Champions League goals, the Polish veteran has proven his poaching skills are as sharp as ever, especially with support from a dynamic attacking lineup.
Player of the Match: Raphinha (Barcelona)
Raphinha’s crucial involvement in Barcelona’s attacking play, along with his goal, made him a key player. Jules Kounde and Robert Lewandowski also impressed, but the Brazilian’s vision and finishing gave him the edge.
Player Ratings
Crvena Zvezda: Marko Ilic 5, Seol 5, Djiga 5, Spajic 6, Rodic 5, Krunic 5, Kanga 6, Elsnik 5, Maksimovic 6, Silas 7, Ndiaye 6. Subs: Dalcio 6, Luka Ilic 6, Katai 6, Milson 7, Prutsev 6.
Barcelona: Pena 6, Cubarsi 7, Martinez 7, Casado 7, Kounde 8, Martin 6, De Jong 6, Pedri 7, Raphinha 8, Yamal 7, Lewandowski 8. Subs: Gavi 6, Fermin 7, Pau 6, Olmo 6, Sergi 6.
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