Match Summary
Barcelona defeated Benfica 3:1. The match was played in UEFA Champions League 2024. Goals were scored by Raphinha 11′, N. Otamendi 13′, Lamine Yamal 27′, Raphinha 42′. 1 yellow cards were shown. Barcelona had 65% possession while Benfica held 35%. Barcelona had 20 shots (6 on target) compared to 8 (2 on target) for Benfica. Expected goals: Barcelona 2.52 — Benfica 0.74. Barcelona made 5 substitutions, Benfica made 5. VAR was involved: Goal confirmed (Raphinha 42′).
Match Events
Key match events between Barcelona and Benfica — 4 goals and 1 cards recorded during the match.
assist: Lamine Yamal
assist: Raphinha
assist: Alejandro Balde
Match Statistics
Barcelona had 65% possession against Benfica's 35%. Barcelona registered 20 shots (6 on target) while Benfica managed 8 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 1–6. Fouls committed: 4–8.
Lineups
Barcelona lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under H. Flick, while Benfica deployed a 4-3-3 under Bruno Lage.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Barcelona is 7.02, compared to 7.06 for Benfica. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Barcelona's highest-rated starter is Lamine Yamal (7.98), while Benfica's best-rated player is A. Schjelderup (7.37).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Barcelona have contributed 12 goals and 9 assists this season, led by Lamine Yamal (5G). Benfica's starters account for 6 goals and 6 assists, spearheaded by A. Schjelderup (3G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Barcelona deploy 4 defenders rated 6.71 on average, against Benfica's 4-man backline averaging 6.95. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Barcelona field 5 midfielders averaging 7.34, versus Benfica's 3 rated 6.86. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Barcelona start 1 forward(s) averaging 6.92, compared to 3 for Benfica averaging 7.37. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 85% for Barcelona and 80% for Benfica. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Barcelona's starters have collected 10 yellow cards this season, compared to 6 for Benfica. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Barcelona's starting XI is 27.1 (youngest: Lamine Yamal (18), oldest: R. Lewandowski (37)), while Benfica average 23.8 (youngest: A. Schjelderup (21), oldest: F. Aursnes (30)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Barcelona's starters average 7 league appearances each, versus 12 for Benfica. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Barcelona have recorded 5 wins, 1 draws and 0 defeats. Benfica show 4 wins, 1 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Barcelona
Benfica
API data: 15 Mar 2026