FC Barcelona delivered a stunning 5-2 victory over Red Star Belgrade in a UEFA Champions League match on Wednesday night. The match, held at the Stadion Rajko Mitić in Belgrade, showcased Barcelona’s firepower and tactical brilliance as they overwhelmed the home side with a series of impressive goals.
Barcelona’s triumph began early in the match when defender Martinez struck first in the 13th minute. He connected perfectly with a well-placed free kick from Raphinha, sending a powerful header past the Red Star goalkeeper. “Martinez was left unmarked, and he made us pay dearly,” admitted a Red Star supporter after the match.
Red Star responded in the 27th minute when forward Silas equalized with a brilliant chip over Barcelona goalkeeper Peña. The home crowd erupted in cheers as Silas calmly finished, showing Red Star’s determination to stay in the fight.
Barcelona reclaimed the lead just before halftime. In the 43rd minute, Pedri set up Raphinha, whose shot hit the post. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski was quick to react, tapping in the rebound to make it 2-1. Lewandowski doubled his tally early in the second half. A deflected cross from Jules Kounde in the 53rd minute found its way to the forward, who guided the ball into the net. “I just stayed focused and took my chances,” said Lewandowski after the match.
Raphinha, who had been a constant threat throughout the game, scored in the 55th minute. Kounde provided a precise pass, and Raphinha slotted the ball home with confidence, putting Barcelona firmly ahead at 4-1.
Barcelona’s dominance continued when Lopez added their fifth goal in the 76th minute. Kounde, not content with two assists, delivered a perfect cut-back pass to Lopez, who fired a low shot into the bottom-left corner. This marked Kounde’s third assist of the night. “Jules was outstanding today, creating opportunities and keeping the attack alive,” praised Barcelona’s coach after the match.
Despite Barcelona’s overwhelming performance, Red Star managed a late consolation goal in the 84th minute. Angolan winger Wilson, following a well-placed pass from Seol, took his time to cut inside and curled a beautiful shot into the bottom-right corner of the net. While it reduced the deficit to 5-2, it was little more than a footnote in Barcelona’s commanding victory.
Barcelona’s win keeps them on track in the Champions League, and fans were thrilled with the team’s attacking prowess. “We showed what we’re capable of,” Lewandowski said. Red Star, meanwhile, will look to regroup and improve their defensive efforts as they continue their European campaign.