Wed Mar 05 20:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Barcelona Edges Past Benfica in Preseason Thriller

**LISBON, PORTUGAL** – FC Barcelona secured a narrow 1-0 victory over SL Benfica in a thrilling preseason friendly today. The match was marked by a controversial red card and a spectacular goalkeeping display.

Raphinha put Barcelona ahead in the 61st minute, breaking the deadlock with a well-taken goal. However, the game took a dramatic turn just 21 minutes earlier when Benfica’s Pau Cubarsí was sent off for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity for Pavlidis.

Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin was the standout performer for the Portuguese side, producing a triple save in the 14th minute to keep the score at 0-0. Despite his heroics, and the numerical disadvantage, Benfica couldn’t find an equalizer.

The match saw strong performances from both sides, with Barcelona featuring a starting XI including Raphinha and Lewandowski, while Benfica fielded a lineup including Trubin, António Silva and Pavlidis. The victory will serve as a boost for Barcelona’s confidence ahead of the new season.

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