Raphinha Equals Messi’s Record as Barcelona Hammer Borussia Dortmund in Champions League Quarter-Final

Barcelona overturned the home disadvantage in their Champions League quarter-final encounter with Borussia Dortmund, battering the Germans 4-0 in the first leg.

Raphinha took center stage, scoring and assisting two others to equal Lionel Messi’s club record for involvement in goals in a season of Champions League competition.

The Brazilian striker’s 12th European goal of the season put Barcelona in well-deserved command in the first half, and he continued to influence the team’s one-sided show. Raphinha’s goal contributions now reach 19, equalling Messi’s feat in the 2011-12 season.

Barcelona’s pressure paid off in the 25th minute when Raphinha scored a fortunate chance. Fermin Lopez’s free-kick found Inigo Martinez on the far post, and he headed the ball across the six-yard box.

Pau Cubarsi pushed the ball down the wall of the far corner, and Raphinha stretched to score on the line.

Dortmund constructed into the game as the half progressed, but Barcelona doubled their lead three minutes into the restart. Raphinha’s header from a cross by Lamine Yamal was scored by Robert Lewandowski.

Lewandowski clinched the match with his 99th goal for the club, finishing off a lightning break in the 66th minute. Raphinha subsequently matched Messi’s record by taking the ball wide of him and sliding it across to Yamal to score in the 77th minute, after another ruthless break.

The win places Barcelona well for the second leg in Germany on Tuesday, April 15. The Spanish side will be looking to put the tie beyond doubt and advance to the semi-finals.