Barcelona secured an impressive 3-1 victory over Benfica in the second leg of their Champions League clash, sealing a 4-1 aggregate triumph and securing their place in the quarter-finals.
The Catalan side showcased a dominant and electrifying display of football, controlling the match and earning a well-deserved win that strengthens their pursuit of European glory.
With this result, Barcelona now awaits their next opponent, which will be determined from the winner of the encounter between Lille and Borussia Dortmund.
Despite their qualification, tensions arose within the squad, particularly involving key attacking duo Lamine Yamal and Rafinha. According to reports from the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, both players expressed frustration after the match regarding the performance of Polish striker Robert Lewandowski.
Their dissatisfaction stemmed from his inefficiency in front of goal, as they believed he squandered multiple clear-cut chances that could have further solidified Barcelona’s dominance. Additionally, concerns were raised about his lack of sharpness and physical intensity, particularly in executing the high-pressing tactics implemented by head coach Hansi Flick.
Yamal and Rafinha reportedly conveyed their discontent directly to Flick, insisting that Lewandowski should no longer be a part of the starting lineup for future matches.
Their criticism was particularly strong, with sources quoting them as saying, “We don’t want to see him on the pitch again,” reflecting their belief that his presence was becoming a liability for the team. This open dissatisfaction has now sparked significant debate about Lewandowski’s role at the club moving forward, raising questions about whether Flick will make adjustments to his squad selection in the upcoming fixtures.
While Barcelona’s progression to the quarter-finals is a cause for celebration, the internal unrest could pose a challenge as the team prepares for tougher opposition in the later stages of the competition.
The controversy surrounding Lewandowski’s form and place in the squad adds another layer of intrigue to Barcelona’s campaign, with fans and analysts eagerly anticipating how Flick will navigate this situation.
Will the experienced striker get a chance to redeem himself, or will Barcelona’s attacking philosophy shift in favor of younger, more dynamic options? Only time will tell as the team continues its pursuit of Champions League success.
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