In an electrifying showdown at the Estadio Olímpico Lluís Companys, FC Barcelona faced Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals on April 9, 2025. Under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona came into the match with a strong sense of determination, looking to capitalize on their recent form and secure a vital home win against a formidable opponent.
Barcelona, having not lifted the Champions League trophy since 2015, was eager to show their prowess on the European stage. Flick's squad had been impressive throughout the season, remaining unbeaten in 2025 with 17 wins and 4 draws. Their last outing saw them draw 1-1 against Real Betis, but the team was focused on putting that behind them as they prepared for the challenge posed by Dortmund.
The match kicked off at 21:00 local time, and the atmosphere was electric as fans filled the stands, eager to witness a clash between two iconic clubs. Barcelona's lineup featured Wojciech Szczęsny in goal, supported by a defensive line of Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, and Alejandro Baldé. In midfield, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, and Fermín López were tasked with controlling the game, while the attacking trio consisted of Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and the ever-dangerous Robert Lewandowski.
Dortmund, led by coach Niko Kovac, entered the match with high hopes after eliminating Lille in the previous round. The German side had shown their attacking capabilities, but they were also aware of the challenge that awaited them in Barcelona. The two teams had previously met earlier in the season, with Barcelona securing a 3-1 victory in Dortmund.
As the first half unfolded, Barcelona quickly asserted their dominance. The home side's high press and swift passing left Dortmund scrambling to find their rhythm. In the 20th minute, Raphinha opened the scoring with a powerful shot from close range, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Barcelona led 1-0, and the momentum was firmly in their favor.
Barcelona continued to apply pressure, with Lewandowski and Yamal causing constant headaches for the Dortmund defense. The visitors struggled to create meaningful chances, and their frustration grew as the first half progressed. Just before the break, Lewandowski doubled the lead with a header from a corner, making it 2-0 and leaving Dortmund with a mountain to climb.
As the second half began, Dortmund made tactical adjustments in an attempt to claw their way back into the match. However, Barcelona's defense held firm, with Szczęsny making crucial saves to keep the clean sheet intact. The Blaugrana's midfield continued to dominate possession, and their counter-attacks looked increasingly dangerous.
In the 70th minute, Lewandowski struck again, scoring his second goal of the night and extending Barcelona's lead to 3-0. The Polish striker showcased his clinical finishing ability, capitalizing on a defensive error from Dortmund. With the scoreline now heavily in favor of the home team, the atmosphere became even more electric as fans sensed a significant victory on the horizon.
Dortmund, desperate to respond, pushed forward in search of a goal. They created a few opportunities, but Barcelona's defense remained resolute. The final nail in the coffin came in the 85th minute when Lamine Yamal scored Barcelona's fourth goal, sealing a comprehensive 4-0 victory.
This result not only puts Barcelona in a commanding position for the return leg but also sends a strong message to the rest of the competition. Hansi Flick's tactical acumen and the players' execution were on full display, demonstrating their readiness to challenge for the Champions League title.
After the match, Flick expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "We executed our game plan perfectly. The players showed great character and determination. This is just the first step, and we must remain focused for the second leg in Dortmund."
As for Dortmund, Kovac acknowledged the challenges his team faced, saying, "We need to regroup and come back stronger. We have the talent to turn this around, but we must learn from our mistakes tonight."
With this emphatic win, Barcelona takes a significant advantage into the second leg, scheduled to take place at Signal Iduna Park. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to this quarter-final tie, with both teams aware of the stakes involved in advancing to the semi-finals of the Champions League.
The victory not only boosts Barcelona's confidence but also reinforces their status as one of the favorites in this year's tournament. As they continue to compete on multiple fronts, including LaLiga and the Copa del Rey, the momentum gained from this match could prove crucial in their pursuit of silverware.
