Raphinha, 28, emerged as the hero in Lisbon by netting the decisive goal in what turned out to be a dramatic contest at the Estádio da Luz. ..Continue Reading
His remarkable ‘once in a lifetime’ goal came in the 64th minute, making it 3-2 to Benfica, after Anatoliy Trubin, under pressure from Robert Lewandowski, launched the ball which deflected off Raphinha’s head and looped into the net.
Spectators at the stadium and viewers worldwide were left in disbelief by this incredible play.
The drama didn’t end there. Just four minutes later, Ronaldo Araujo’s own goal seemed to put Benfica comfortably ahead at 4-2.
However, Hansi Flick’s team was awarded a penalty in the 78th minute, which Lewandowski expertly converted for his second goal of the match.
With the score at 4-3, both teams continued their relentless pursuit of goals. The away team equalized in the 86th minute when substitute Eric Garcia headed in Pedri’s cross.
The excitement persisted until the very end. In the dying moments of stoppage time, Benfica’s players appealed for a penalty after it appeared Fermin Lopez had fouled a Benfica player in the box.
While the appeal was ongoing, Barca swiftly moved the ball to Raphinha, who scored to secure a 5-4 victory for Barca in the 96th minute.
After the goal, tensions flared between both sides, resulting in Benfica’s Arthur Cabral being sent off for protesting from the bench.
According to Movistar, a brawl broke out between players in the tunnel post-match, necessitating police intervention.
Reports suggest that Raphinha had to be separated from Benfica players, although this remains unconfirmed.
Following the game, the Brazilian shared his thoughts on the incident.
“They insulted me at the end of the match, I insulted them back,” he said.
“If they respect me, I respect them. In my opinion they could have understood the situation, but they preferred to insult me.”
