Raphinha Equals Messi’s Record In Barcelona’s Spectacular Rout Of Dortmund

Barcelona asserted their European dominance with a ruthless 4-0 demolition of Borussia Dortmund, putting themselves tantalisingly close to another Champions League semi-final. But the night truly belonged to Raphinha — the Brazilian winger equalled Lionel Messi’s iconic club record for goal involvements in a Champions League campaign, underlining a remarkable personal resurgence amid Barcelona’s collective revival.

This emphatic first-leg victory did more than settle the quarter-final tie early; it marked a potential new dawn powered by an attacking unit that is rewriting records and defying expectations.

The story began in the 25th minute, when Raphinha instinctively slid onto Pau Cubarsí’s deft poke just inches from the line. It was a goal tinged with apology — afterwards, he admitted, "I apologized to Cubarsí. The ball was probably going in anyway, but it was instinctive." Still, it edged Raphinha closer to Champions League history by registering his 12th goal of the tournament, vaulting him to the top of this season’s scoring charts.

Soon after, Robert Lewandowski struck twice — ruthless, predatory finishes that showcased his evergreen class. Lamine Yamal, just 17 years old but playing with startling composure, added a fourth late on following another Raphinha assist, sealing a rout that left Dortmund shell-shocked and Barcelona fans dreaming once more.

In all, Raphinha delivered a goal and two assists on the night, bringing his tally to 19 goal involvements (12 goals, 7 assists) this Champions League season — matching Messi’s best mark set back in 2011-12. As BBC pundit Stephen Warnock put it, "It is phenomenal, breathtaking when you put him in the same bracket as Messi, and with more games to come." Only Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 21 involvements in 2013-14 now stands ahead.

These exploits gain added weight considering where Raphinha was just a year ago. Facing an uncertain future, struggling to impress after a £55m move from Leeds, and almost sold due to Barcelona’s financial woes, he openly admits, "There was a lot of self-doubt. Several moments I thought about leaving." Instead, galvanized by new coach Hansi Flick’s arrival, he’s flourished — focused, efficient and precise on the ball, embodying resilience born from a tough upbringing in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Barcelona’s transformed attack is more than a one-man show. With Lewandowski hitting his 99th goal for the club — now the first player to net 10+ Champions League goals for three different clubs — and teenager Yamal dazzling with maturity beyond his years, the trio have combined for a stunning 82 goals this campaign. It is a frightening prospect for any defence. BBC analyst Rory Smith summed it up: "That Barcelona attack, that’s a team who can win the Champions League. They are as good at going forward as anybody."

The statistics underline this resurgence. The Catalans are now 23 unbeaten, having struck four or more goals in 21 of their 48 games this season. Their dynamic front three — combining ruthless finishing and fluid interplay — resemble past legendary Barca tridents but with fresh hunger and pace.

Despite the convincing lead, Flick remained measured, warning, “You never know what can happen in football. It’s still not won.” His opposite Niko Kovac conceded defeat was deserved, admitting, “At this level, we made too many errors. Our chances of progressing are small.” Dortmund had fleeting openings, but Barcelona defended stoutly — Ronald Araujo’s late double block a symbol of their unwavering focus.

For now, the headlines rightly belong to Raphinha, who not only equalled Messi’s mark but reignited belief at Camp Nou. With a treble pursuit alive, including leading La Liga and a Copa del Rey final berth, Barcelona’s attack is peaking at just the right time. Break Ronaldo’s record, lift a sixth European crown? Both suddenly seem within reach.

Can Barcelona sustain this attacking juggernaut all the way to Wembley glory? Or will football’s unpredictability write a different story? Share your thoughts, predictions and whether Raphinha is now truly among the world’s elite forwards in the comments below.

• Lamine Yamal
• Raphinha
• Robert Lewandowski

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