Lewandowski’s brace leads Barcelona to a commanding win over Red Star. X.com (@BarcaUniversal)
Robert Lewandowski continued his dazzling form with two goals as Barcelona secured a third consecutive Champions League win, decisively beating Red Star Belgrade. The 36-year-old striker now sits on the cusp of history, just one goal shy of becoming the third player to reach 100 in the Champions League, joining only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the exclusive club.
Lewandowski’s first goal came with a smart, reactive finish after Raphinha’s shot rebounded off the post, restoring Barcelona’s lead before halftime. Earlier, Inigo Martinez had opened the scoring with a well-timed header from a Raphinha free-kick in the 13th minute. Still, Red Star’s Silas Katompa Mvumpa equalized against the run of play with a clever chipped finish, briefly catching Barcelona off-guard.
Barcelona, however, responded swiftly after the break, putting the game out of reach with a flurry of quick goals. Jules Kounde was instrumental, providing assists for both Lewandowski’s second goal and a well-placed Raphinha strike within minutes of each other. Kounde rounded off his remarkable playmaking night by setting up Fermin Lopez, whose late goal sealed Barcelona’s emphatic win. Red Star managed a late consolation goal from substitute Milson, who curled in a fine strike, but it was too late for the Serbian champions, who remain without a point in the group and sit in 35th place in the new league format.
This latest victory catapults Barcelona to sixth place in the Champions League standings, putting them firmly on track for a top-eight finish in the expanded 36-team format. Lewandowski, now with 99 goals in 124 Champions League appearances, will have the chance to notch his milestone 100th goal in Barcelona’s upcoming home match against Breast later this month.
The match began with Barcelona on the front foot, dominating possession and creating early chances. Despite an early disallowed Red Star goal—Timi Max Elsnik was marginally offside—Barcelona were unrelenting in their attack. Raphinha was among the brightest, though he missed a few opportunities, including a close call when he hit the outside of the post from a corner. Red Star capitalized on Barcelona’s missed chances to level the score with Silas’s clinical chip, momentarily shocking the visitors. However, Lewandowski’s first strike of the night regained control for Barcelona just before halftime.
The second half showcased Barcelona’s clinical edge. Kounde found Lewandowski unmarked at the back post for a straightforward finish and, moments later, set up Raphinha on the edge of the penalty area to stretch the lead. Kounde’s third assist of the night went to Lopez, who netted Barcelona’s fourth goal, ensuring a comfortable win.
Under the guidance of Hansi Flick, Barcelona is now riding a wave of momentum. They have won their past seven games across all competitions and scored an impressive 29 goals in that span. This high-flying form has also set a new benchmark for the club, marking the first time since the 1959-60 season that Barcelona have scored four or more goals in three consecutive Champions League games.
With nine points clear at the top of La Liga, Barcelona looks to continue their free-scoring dominance, led by the evergreen Lewandowski, who remains as deadly in front of goal as ever.
