Barcelona delivered a commanding performance against Crvena Zvezda on Wednesday evening, unleashing a five-goal masterclass that turned the Champions League fixture into a resounding victory for the Spanish giants. The Catalan side displayed relentless attacking prowess, leaving their Serbian opponents struggling to keep up.
Crvena Zvezda did appear to strike first, putting the ball in the net within the opening three minutes, but VAR quickly intervened to disallow the goal for a clear offside. Just over 10 minutes later, Barcelona seized the lead when Inigo Martinez rose high to meet Raphinha’s pinpoint delivery, heading in with authority to open the scoring.
However, Crvena Zvezda responded with an impressive goal of their own in the 26th minute. Silas timed his run perfectly, slipping past Barca’s backline and executing a delicate chip over Inaki Pena, leveling the score with a superb finish.
Barcelona regained control just before halftime. Raphinha unleashed a shot that struck the post, and Robert Lewandowski was there to capitalize, instinctively tapping in from close range to restore Barca’s advantage. This poacher’s goal ensured Barcelona went into the break with momentum on their side.
Shortly after the second half began, Lewandowski missed a golden opportunity to extend the lead when he fired wide from inside the box. But he wasted no time in making amends, finding himself in the perfect position once again to slot home from close range after a well-timed cross from Jules Kounde.
Barcelona continued to press forward, and their offensive push paid off once more when Raphinha netted a clever, low strike from the edge of the area, again set up by a Kounde cross. This quick succession of goals cemented Barcelona’s dominance as they left Zvezda’s defense in disarray.
The Catalans continued to impress, with substitute Fermin Lopez joining the scoresheet in the 76th minute. Taking advantage of yet another well-executed cut-back from Kounde—who completed a hat-trick of assists—Lopez found the net with a calm finish, sealing the victory.
Although Crvena Zvezda managed to pull one back late on through Felicio Milson, whose stunning, curling shot from just inside the box provided a moment of consolation for the hosts, Barcelona’s control of the game was never in doubt. This powerful display saw them depart Red Star Stadium with a comprehensive win.
