Barcelona secured their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time since 2019 with a convincing 3-1 victory over Napoli. Raphinha shone on the left flank, while Barcelona’s young talents impressed on the right. Robert Lewandowski sealed the win with a late goal, capping off a dominant performance by the Blaugrana.

Xavi’s side wasted no time in asserting their dominance, scoring two quick goals in the opening minutes. Raphinha played a pivotal role in both goals, providing an assist for Fermin Lopez before hitting the post, allowing Joao Cancelo to convert the rebound. (also read: Al Nassr Triumphs Over Al Fayha with Late Ronaldo Goal AFC Champions League Round of 16 Highlights | FYH 0-1 NAS).

Although Napoli managed to pull one back through Amir Rrahmani, Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s heroics in goal prevented an immediate equalizer. Despite Lamine Yamal’s disallowed goal in the second half, Barcelona continued to create chances, with Raphinha and Lewandowski coming close before the latter sealed the win with a late goal. (also read: Exciting Draw SC Freiburg 2-2 Bayern Munich Bundesliga Highlights March 2, 2024).

This performance marked Barcelona’s best showing in months, with Xavi’s side delivering when it mattered most. The Catalan club now finds themselves dreaming of further success in the competition.

Here are GOAL’s ratings for Barcelona’s players from the Olympic Stadium:

Goalkeeper & Defence

• Marc-Andre ter Stegen (7/10): Made impressive saves and distributed the ball well.
• Jules Kounde (8/10): Successfully contained his opponent and held his ground.
• Ronald Araujo (7/10): Effective in organizing the defense but struggled in tight spaces.
• Pau Cubarsi (8/10): Made crucial interventions and showcased good passing ability.
• Joao Cancelo (7/10): Scored a goal and contributed defensively.

Midfield

• Andreas Christensen (5/10): Made some rash challenges but avoided a sending-off.
• Fermin Lopez (8/10): Threatened going forward and scored a crucial goal.
• Ilkay Gundogan (7/10): Linked midfield and attack well but failed to track back for Napoli’s goal.

Attack

• Lamine Yamal (8/10): Created opportunities and caused problems for Napoli’s defense.
• Robert Lewandowski (6/10): Had a quiet game but scored the decisive goal.
• Raphinha (8/10): Instrumental in the early goals and a constant threat on the left flank.