Barcelona took a commanding step toward the Champions League semifinals with a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in their quarterfinal first leg at the Spotify Camp Nou.
The Catalan giants dominated from the opening whistle, with Raphinha continuing his remarkable European campaign by opening the scoring. The Brazilian tapped home from Pau Cubarsi’s clever flick to register his 12th Champions League goal this season, extending his lead as the competition’s top scorer.
Robert Lewandowski then took center stage against his former club, netting twice in quick succession after halftime. The Polish striker first headed home from close range before adding a clinical low drive that gave Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel no chance. These goals highlighted Lewandowski’s enduring quality at 36, having now scored 97 career Champions League goals.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal completed the rout with a brilliant finish following a devastating counter-attack, showcasing why he’s considered one of world football’s brightest prospects at just 17 years old.
This victory represents Barcelona’s most impressive European performance under Hansi Flick, who has revitalized the team since taking charge last summer. The German coach has implemented an attacking philosophy that has seen Barcelona score 112 goals across all competitions this season.
For Dortmund, this defeat continues their inconsistent campaign. Despite reaching last season’s Champions League final, Edin Terzić’s side now faces an almost impossible task in the return leg at Signal Iduna Park.
Barcelona’s resurgence comes after several disappointing European campaigns following their last Champions League triumph in 2015. With this commanding first-leg advantage, they appear poised to reach their first semifinal since 2019, potentially facing either Arsenal or Real Madrid in the next round.
The second leg in Dortmund next week now appears a formality, with Barcelona’s focus likely already shifting toward potential semifinal opponents.