Barcelona successfully qualified for the last eight in the UEFA Champions League, and their run has been very impressive so far. The Blaugrana sealed the deal against Benfica last night in dominant fashion, and the team’s confidence and form are growing exponentially. As the Catalans prepare for the next round, here are four key talking points from this qualification.
Barca’s Key Players Are Firing on All Cylinders
An encouraging sign for Barca right now is the form of their star players as they head into the quarter-finals. Pedri continues to be Barca’s midfield maestro. The No. 8 is having the time of his life this season in midfield and is racking up MVP awards for fun. Raphinha, meanwhile, is undoubtedly Barcelona’s best player this season and keeps contributing crucial goals and assists. After his brace last night, he has become the current top scorer in UCL this season.
Young Lamine Yamal has also emerged as a game-changer. He scored a screamer yesterday and showcased his immense potential against Benfica. Frenkie de Jong is also hitting his strides and keeps bringing control and stability to the team. All in all, the big players are finding their groove, and the Catalans look like a well-oiled machine under Hansi Flick.
A Favorable Quarter-Final Draw: Lille or Dortmund
Barca’s potential quarter-final opponents are Borussia Dortmund or Lille. Although both teams are strong in their own right, the Catalans’ current form makes them favourites to advance.
Dortmund has struggled in the Bundesliga this season and stands at the 10th rank. Their attacking prowess has been good, but the inconsistent defence has cost them big time. On the other hand, Lille lacks the attacking firepower to match Hansi Flick’s offensive threat. The draw gives Barca an excellent opportunity to get closer to the coveted UCL trophy.
Hansi Flick’s Mastery on Competing on All Fronts
Barca has been excelling in every competition this season under Hansi Flick’s guidance. The Spanish Super Cup is already in the bag, and the Blaugrana sit comfortably on top of La Liga. The final of the Copa del Rey is one game away, and now a place in the Champions League quarter-final has been secured as well.
Flick’s team is proving it has the quality and discipline to compete on multiple fronts. The German coach has instilled a winning mentality in players and ensured everyone is ready and well-prepared for all kinds of challenges. After years, it seems this might be the season the Catalans reclaim their status as one of Europe’s elites.
A New Balon d’Or Contender: Raphinha
For the first time since Leo Messi’s departure, Barca is a genuine contender to win the Balon d’Or. Raphinha, the Brazilian winger, has been in red-hot form and has led the Champions League scoring charts. Overall, the Brazilian scored 26 goals and has provided 13 assists in all competitions.
He has stepped up in crucial moments for Barca and has combined his brilliant form with his exceptional work rate. He truly is the most exciting player in world football right now, and if he continues like this, not only will Barca win multiple trophies, but the No. 11 will surely bring the Balon d’Or to the new Camp Nou.