Barcelona’s red-hot striker, Robert Lewandowski, once again showcased his remarkable scoring abilities, netting twice in Barcelona’s 4-1 win over Red Star Belgrade. This victory marks Barcelona’s third consecutive triumph in the Champions League, lifting them to sixth place in the new 36-team league format and inching Robert Lewandowski closer to a significant milestone in European football. The 36-year-old Polish forward has been in sensational form, tallying 19 goals in 16 matches across all competitions this season. Now, with 99 goals in the Champions League, he is just one goal shy of joining the exclusive club of players with 100 or more goals, a feat previously achieved only by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Robert Lewandowski’s first goal came just before half-time, responding quickly to a rebounded shot from Raphinha, restoring Barcelona’s lead after Silas Katompa Mvumpa’s surprise equalizer for Red Star. In the second half, Barcelona’s dominance was clear as Lewandowski and his teammates put the game out of reach for the Serbian champions. This performance reinforces Barcelona’s growing strength in Europe, driven by a resurgent attack and a formidable Lewandowski.
A One-Sided Encounter with Red Star Belgrade
Barcelona set the tone for the match from the start, pressing high and creating chances in the Red Star half. Despite an early scare when Timi Max Elsnik’s goal for Red Star was disallowed for offside, Barcelona quickly regained control. Inigo Martinez opened the scoring in the 13th minute, connecting with Raphinha’s expertly delivered free-kick. However, Barcelona’s lead was short-lived, as Red Star capitalized on a rare opportunity with a well-executed chip from Silas Katompa Mvumpa, leveling the score against the run of play.
Though the first half saw Barcelona squander several scoring opportunities, including a missed chance by Raphinha, Lewandowski’s reactive finish just before the break reestablished Barcelona’s lead. His strike set the stage for a more dominant second half, where Barcelona outmaneuvered Red Star with quick succession goals and unrelenting pressure.
Kounde and Robert Lewandowski Shine in Second-Half Showdown
Barcelona’s Jules Kounde played a crucial role in the second half, assisting on both of Barcelona’s quick-fire goals shortly after the restart. First, Kounde’s well-placed cross found Robert Lewandowski unmarked at the back post, allowing the forward to notch his second goal of the night. Just two minutes later, Kounde delivered another pinpoint pass to Raphinha, who struck from the edge of the penalty area, further extending Barcelona’s lead. Kounde capped off his stellar performance by setting up Fermin Lopez’s late goal, putting the result beyond doubt.
Despite Barcelona’s dominant performance, Red Star managed a late consolation goal with substitute Milson curling in a beautiful finish. However, the outcome was already decided, with Barcelona’s attacking force proving too much for Red Star’s defense to handle.
Barcelona’s Winning Streak in Europe and Domestic League
With this win, Barcelona have now secured their seventh consecutive victory across all competitions, having scored an impressive 29 goals during this streak. Hansi Flick’s side continues to sit comfortably atop La Liga, nine points clear of their nearest competitor, and is on track to finish in the top eight of the revamped Champions League league format. Lewandowski’s pursuit of a century of Champions League goals adds an extra layer of excitement for fans, with the milestone potentially achievable in their next home match against Brest.
Notably, this is the first time Barcelona have scored four or more goals in three successive European matches since the 1959-60 season. Robert Lewandowski’s presence has revitalized Barcelona’s attack, with his goal-scoring record reflecting both his individual skill and the overall synergy within the team. As Barcelona aim to progress deeper into the Champions League, Lewandowski’s goal-scoring prowess and their free-flowing attack make them a formidable contender on both domestic and European fronts.
