Tue Mar 11 16:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Barcelona Steals Victory Over Benfica Despite Early Red Card
**Lisbon, Portugal** – Barcelona secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Benfica in the first leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie on Wednesday, despite playing the majority of the match with ten men. Teenage defender Pau Cubarsi received a straight red card in the 22nd minute for a foul, leaving Barcelona facing an uphill battle.
However, heroic goalkeeping from Wojciech Szczesny, playing in place of the injured Marc-André ter Stegen, kept Barcelona in the game. Szczesny made eight crucial saves, including several stunning stops in the second half when Benfica dominated possession. His efforts were rewarded when Raphinha capitalized on a defensive error in the 61st minute, scoring the decisive goal.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised his team’s performance, highlighting the exceptional defensive effort following the early red card. Midfielder Pedri echoed this sentiment, crediting Szczesny’s outstanding performance and the team’s resilience.
Benfica, despite enjoying significant possession and creating numerous chances, were unable to breach Szczesny’s defense. Fredrik Aursnes expressed Benfica’s disappointment, acknowledging their missed opportunities and the costly defeat. The second leg promises a thrilling encounter as Benfica will attempt to overturn the deficit.
First Piper 