Pau Cubarsí Enters Champions League History
Pau Cubarsí Enters Champions League History
Barcelona claimed an essential 1-0 victory against Benfica in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16
Raphinha netted the decisive goal in the 61st minute, securing an advantage for the Catalan giants
Playing with ten men, Barcelona had to adapt, with Hansi Flick making immediate tactical changes and goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny delivering crucial saves.
A Historic Red Card
Cubarsí, just 18 years and 42 days old, was sent off in the 22nd minute after committing a last-man foul.
His challenge on a Benfica attacker left the referee with no choice but to brandish a straight red card.
According to OPTA, this makes him the second-youngest player ever to receive a red card in the Champions League.
Trailing only Celestine Babayaro, who was dismissed at 16 years and 86 days in 1994.
1- Pau Cubarsí 🇪🇸 has suffered his first red card for @FCBarcelona in all competitions (65 games). At 18 years and 42 days old, he is the second youngest player to be sent off in #UCL history after Celestine Babayaro in 1994 (16 years and 86 days). Red. pic.twitter.com/ykHJM7R66H
— OptaJose (@OptaJose) March 5, 2025
Barcelona Forced to Adapt
Playing with ten men for over an hour, Barcelona had to quickly reorganize.
Head coach Hansi Flick reacted immediately by substituting Dani Olmo for Ronald Araújo, reinforcing the defence.
Despite Benfica’s relentless attacks, Barcelona’s goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny, produced a string of vital saves to maintain his team’s clean sheet.
VAR Drama in the Final Moments
Benfica came close to equalizing in the 84th minute when they were awarded a penalty.
However, VAR intervened and ruled the decision out for offside, keeping Barcelona’s slender lead intact.
The Spanish side now heads into the second leg with a valuable advantage, but Benfica remains a formidable opponent.
Second Leg Decider
The return fixture takes place next Tuesday.
With Barcelona holding a narrow lead and Benfica eager to fight back, the battle for a place in the quarter-finals promises to be intense.
