October 24, 2024
1 min read

Raphinha scores hat-trick in Barcelona’s dominant victory over Bayern Munich

After suffering six consecutive defeats to Bayern Munich, Barcelona turned the tide at the Olympic Stadium, outclassing the six-time champions. Robert Lewandowski also found the net, while Harry Kane scored for the visitors.

Hansi Flick, who previously oversaw Bayern’s humiliating 8-2 loss to Barcelona in 2020, guided his team to an impressive win that suggests they may finally be contenders for the Champions League trophy after a decade of disappointments.

Meanwhile, Bayern is struggling, with only one win from three group matches, placing them in the lower half of the table, while Barcelona sits in the top third with two victories.

“This game could have been a Champions League final, and winning in front of our fans is special,” Raphinha told Movistar. “Getting the second victory was important, and now we must focus on Saturday’s match.”

Barcelona is set to face Real Madrid in a highly anticipated La Liga Clasico this weekend, showcasing a solid preparation for the clash. Flick made a bold choice by starting Fermin Lopez for his first match of the season after injury, while Bayern coach Vincent Kompany opted for Serge Gnabry, leaving Jamal Musiala on the bench.

Barcelona, who hadn’t scored against Bayern in their last four encounters, struck first just one minute in, with Lopez setting up Raphinha for a composed finish. Kane nearly equalized but was denied by a strong challenge from Inaki Pena after a heavy touch. He later managed to score from a spectacular acrobatic finish, leveling the score for Bayern.

However, Barcelona quickly regained control. Lopez set up Lewandowski for their second goal, showcasing his energy and playmaking skills. The 36-year-old striker has thrived since Flick’s arrival, scoring 15 goals in 13 appearances this season. Raphinha added a brilliant third before halftime, dribbling into the area and firing a shot that went through Dayot Upamecano’s legs and past Neuer.

Raphinha sealed his hat-trick just ten minutes into the second half with a powerful strike from the edge of the box. In response, Kompany made four substitutions, introducing Musiala, Kingsley Coman, Leroy Sane, and Leon Goretzka. As Barcelona led 4-1, their fans began to celebrate with cheers as Bayern struggled to regain possession.

With hopes of reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2019, belief is growing in Catalonia that Flick can help restore their elite status. A challenging test awaits them with their upcoming visit to the Santiago Bernabeu. After Vinicius Junior’s hat-trick for Madrid against Dortmund, Raphinha matched that performance, sending a strong message against Bayern.

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