Barcelona Dominates Dortmund in Champions League QF First Leg

Synopsis

In a commanding display, FC Barcelona secured a 4-0 victory against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals, all but guaranteeing their progression to the semifinals. Key players like Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal excelled, showcasing Barcelona's dominance on the field.

Key Takeaways

FC Barcelona wins 4-0 against Borussia Dortmund.
Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal were standout performers.
Barcelona virtually secures a semifinal spot.
The match featured a VAR check for Raphinha's goal.
Concerns arise over Yamal's late substitution request.

Madrid, April 10 (NationPress) FC Barcelona shifted into high gear, almost securing their spot in the Champions League semifinals with a commanding 4-0 victory at home against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their quarterfinal clash.

Aside from a brief period at the end of the first half, Hansi Flick's squad was thoroughly outplayed, with the attacking trio of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha wreaking havoc, while Pedri orchestrated the midfield, dismantling their opponents.

Barcelona started strong, with Yamal cutting in from the right and forcing a save from Gregor Kobel.

Raphinha then maneuvered along the touchline, delivering the ball across the goal. The Brazilian converted his team's promising start into a goal in the 25th minute, sliding in to score from very close range after Pau Cubarsi deflected Inigo Martinez's header towards goal.

This goal required a VAR check to confirm its validity, and Raphinha would have faced scrutiny had it been disallowed since Cubarsi's initial touch was on target.

Another quick Barca attack soon followed, but Raphinha sent the ball wide after Yamal initiated a swift break, before Dortmund began to find their footing.

Karim Adeyemi delivered a superb cross from the left, just ahead of Serhou Guirassy, who squandered a better opportunity, followed by Jamie Gittens having a shot blocked.

These missed chances proved costly as Robert Lewandowski doubled Barcelona's lead just three minutes into the second half, heading in from close range after Raphinha nodded Yamal's excellent cross across the goal.

Barcelona regained their dominance with Fermin Lopez, who was favored over Gavi in the starting lineup, attempting one shot wide and having another blocked, while Kobel denied Lewandowski, who mishit the rebound.

A third goal was imminent, and Lewandowski netted it with a low finish after Fermin found space on the right to pull the ball back for him following a rapid break.

Yamal sealed the deal with a fourth goal in the 76th minute after Raphinha supplied him with a diagonal pass, allowing the youngster to score with impressive ease.

The only potential hiccup on an otherwise stellar night was Yamal requesting to be substituted ten minutes before the end; although he didn't appear to sustain a serious injury, Barcelona fans may be anxious about a diagnosis.