Barcelona's $50M Comeback Secures Last 16 Spot

Raphinha, Barcelona's Brazilian winger, scored a decisive goal in stoppage time to secure a dramatic 5-4 comeback victory over Benfica in the Champions League, sealing Barcelona's place in the last 16. Despite trailing 4-2 with less than 15 minutes left, Barcelona turned the game around with contributions from Robert Lewandowski and Eric Garcia, alongside Raphinha's brace. Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis had earlier given Benfica a two-goal lead with a first-half hat-trick, aided by errors from Barcelona's goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. The match featured multiple dramatic moments, including VAR decisions and a contestable penalty appeal by Benfica. This victory not only boosted Barcelona's morale but also potentially adds over $50 million to their coffers in UEFA prize money, crucial for the financially strained club.