Raphinha Scores 32nd Goal as Barcelona Stay Alive in Thrilling Champions League Semi-Final

Raphinha scored his 32nd goal of the season to keep Barcelona’s Champions League hopes alive in their semi-final against Inter Milan.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Barcelona drew 3-3 with Inter Milan in a dramatic semi-final. Raphinha’s goal in the second half, his 32nd this season, briefly put Barcelona ahead. But Inter equalised in stoppage time. Raphinha tied Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for the most goal contributions in a single Champions League campaign—13 goals and 8 assists in 12 matches—as Ronaldo had in the 2013-14 season. Raphinha’s scintillating performance this season has made him one of the most talked-about forwards in Europe.

BARCELONA’S SEASON SO FAR

Barcelona have already conquered two domestic trophies: the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. They are also chasing the league title. Their next match is El Clásico against Real Madrid, who they trail by five points. They can reduce that gap to two points with a win, leaving three games to play. After Champions League elimination on away goals, Barcelona are still motivated to fight for success in La Liga.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Barcelona’s focus shifts to La Liga and the El Clasico with Real Madrid. Raphinha’s outstanding form with 32 goals this season, including 13 in the Champions League, will be crucial in this race for the title. If he, and his team, can continue performing at their highest level, they have a realistic chance of winning another trophy.