March 13, (THEWILL)- Barcelona cruised into the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in four years after a dominant 3-1 win over Napoli earned them a 4-2 aggregate victory in their round of 16 tie.
Xavi Hernandez’s youthful side shackled Napoli striker Victor Osimhen early on and raced into a two-goal lead inside 17 minutes through Fermin Lopez and Joao Cancelo at the Nou Camp.
Despite Amir Rrahmani pulling one back for the Italian visitors, Barcelona showed their class after the break. Robert Lewandowski sealed the win with a simple finish set up by substitutes Ilkay Gundogan and Sergi Roberto. The victory extends Barcelona’s unbeaten run to nine matches across all competitions.
For Napoli and their prolific marksman Osimhen, it marks a third consecutive exit from European competition at this stage since 2020 after a 1-1 first-leg draw in Italy. The defending Serie A champions struggled to contain Barcelona’s vibrant attack, with Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez continuously threatening. A late Khvicha Kvaratskhelia chance went begging as their six-game unbeaten streak came to an end.
Barcelona’s young stars shone brightest, with 20-year-old Fermin netting the crucial opener. Raphinha was also outstanding, setting up the first goal and hitting the post for the second. Their controlled display bodes well for a potential first UCL triumph since 2015 under Xavi’s tutelage.
The Catalan giants will eagerly await the quarter-final draw as they continue their revival on domestic and European fronts this campaign. However, for Osimhen and Napoli, their European dreams are over for yet another season.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
