Barcelona’s resounding 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash has firmly placed them on the cusp of reaching the semi-finals for the first time since 2019. Hansi Flick’s side, riding a 23-match unbeaten streak, delivered a dominant performance, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical superiority against last year’s runners-up. The five-time Champions League winners orchestrated a masterclass in offensive football, leaving Dortmund reeling and facing a near-impossible task in the second leg. The emphatic victory not only underscores Barcelona’s resurgence under Flick but also highlights their ambition to reclaim their position among Europe’s elite.
From the opening whistle, Barcelona asserted their control over the game, dictating the tempo and creating numerous scoring opportunities. The youthful exuberance of 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, coupled with the clinical finishing of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, proved too much for Dortmund to handle. Yamal, in particular, was a constant threat, tormenting the Dortmund defense with his pace, skill, and fearless dribbling. The Spanish starlet’s relentless runs and incisive passes created havoc in the Dortmund backline, setting the stage for Barcelona’s offensive onslaught.
The opening goal arrived midway through the first half, courtesy of a Raphinha tap-in following a well-worked free-kick routine. Karim Adeyemi’s needless foul on Jules Kounde presented Barcelona with a dangerous set-piece opportunity, which they expertly capitalized on. Fermin Lopez’s delivery found Inigo Martinez, whose header fell kindly for Pau Cubarsi. Cubarsi’s effort was goal-bound, and Raphinha ensured the ball crossed the line, claiming his 12th goal of the season. Despite a VAR check for a potential offside, the goal stood, giving Barcelona a deserved lead.
While Dortmund had a brief glimmer of hope with Serhou Guirassy’s missed chance, their profligacy in front of goal would come back to haunt them. Lewandowski, facing his former club, extended Barcelona’s lead early in the second half, nodding in Raphinha’s header at the far post. The Polish striker’s 10th goal of the tournament further cemented his status as one of the most lethal finishers in the game. Lewandowski’s relentless pursuit of goals has been a hallmark of Barcelona’s success this season, and his double against Dortmund further emphasized his importance to the team.
Barcelona’s dominance continued throughout the second half, with Lopez hitting the post and narrowly missing the target. The third goal eventually arrived in the 66th minute, with Lewandowski completing his brace by drilling a shot past Kobel at the near post. The goal marked Lewandowski’s 29th against his former club in 28 matches, a testament to his prolific scoring record against Dortmund. Yamal, who had been a constant menace throughout the game, finally got his name on the scoresheet, capping off a superb individual performance. Raphinha’s through ball sent the youngster clear on goal, and he calmly slotted the ball past Kobel to complete the rout.
Barcelona’s emphatic victory not only puts them in a commanding position to advance to the semi-finals but also serves as a statement of intent to the rest of Europe. The Catalan giants, under the guidance of Hansi Flick, have rediscovered their attacking flair and are playing with a renewed sense of purpose. With a potential quadruple on the line, Barcelona appears determined to make this season a memorable one. Their performance against Dortmund showcased their attacking prowess, tactical flexibility, and the emergence of young talents like Yamal. As they prepare for the second leg in Germany, Barcelona will be confident of securing their place in the semi-finals and continuing their quest for European glory. The only concern for Barcelona was a late injury to Yamal, who requested to be substituted in the closing stages. However, the youngster appeared to be in good spirits as he received a standing ovation from the Camp Nou faithful.
