Barcelona gets dominant 4-0 win over Dortmund in UCL

Barcelona took a huge step toward the Champions League semifinals with a resounding 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday night at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. With Frenkie de Jong pulling the strings in midfield, the La Liga leaders showcased their attacking quality and composure to all but secure their place in the final four.

Early warning signs for Dortmund

Despite the final scoreline, Borussia Dortmund had early opportunities to shock the Catalan giants. In-form striker Serhou Guirassy, who entered the match with 10 Champions League goals, was handed three golden chances in the first half. However, he squandered each one including a one-on-one with Barcelona keeper Wojciech Szczesny — failing to capitalize on Dortmund’s early pressure. Barcelona captain Frenkie de Jong, who was again instrumental in midfield, appeared visibly relieved when Guirassy’s third miss sailed wide. Once questioned at Camp Nou, the Dutch international has since become the heartbeat of Hansi Flick’s side and was pivotal in turning the tide of the match.

Barcelona break through with controversy and class

Barcelona’s breakthrough came with a hint of controversy. A deflected shot from youngster Pau Cubarsí looked destined for the net before Raphinha tapped it in from close range, robbing the teenager of a possible first Champions League goal. While the move raised eyebrows, Raphinha quickly redeemed himself. Early in the second half, Lamine Yamal delivered a pinpoint cross to Raphinha, who headed the ball across goal for Robert Lewandowski to nod in from close range. The Polish striker added his second of the night shortly after, taking his tally to 11 goals in this Champions League campaign. Barcelona sealed the emphatic win in the final stages through Yamal, who capped off a sweeping team move with a composed finish to make it 4-0.

Looking ahead: Dortmund rematch and potential semifinal showdown

With a four-goal cushion, Barcelona will head to Dortmund next week confident of progressing to the semifinals. Their likely opponents? Inter Milan, who beat Bayern Munich 2-1 in the first leg in Germany. Should Barcelona continue this form, a potential Clásico final against Real Madrid remains a tantalizing possibility although Madrid must overcome a 3-0 first-leg defeat to Arsenal.