UCL : Barcelona Script Stunning Comeback, Beat Benfica 5-4 In Champions League- WATCH

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Barcleona vs Benfica : In a thrilling Champions League encounter, Raphinha scored a stoppage-time winner as Barcelona staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Benfica 5-4.

The dramatic victory in Lisbon brought Barcelona closer to direct qualification for the tournament's knockout stages, keeping them three points behind group leaders Liverpool.

Controversy surrounded the decisive goal, with Benfica appealing for a penalty after Ferran Torres appeared to shove Leandro Barreiro in the box during the buildup. While VAR reviewed the incident, it ultimately upheld the referee's initial decision, allowing Barcelona to celebrate their victory.

The hosts initially dominated, racing to a 4-2 lead with under 15 minutes remaining, thanks to Vangelis Pavlidis' first-half hat-trick, aided by two crucial errors from Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. However, Barcelona refused to back down, with Robert Lewandowski's brace, Eric Garcia's header, and two crucial goals from Raphinha sealing a stunning turnaround.

Benfica struck first just two minutes into the match when Pavlidis latched onto Alvaro Carreras's low cross and fired past Szczesny. Barcelona quickly equalized through a Lewandowski penalty after Alejandro Balde was fouled by Tomas Araujo in the box.

Pavlidis restored Benfica's lead after Szczesny misjudged a through-ball and collided with Balde, leaving the Greek forward to slot into an empty net. Pavlidis completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot after Szczesny brought down Kerem Akturkoglu with another rash challenge, putting Benfica firmly in control.

Barcelona missed several chances before halftime, with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal coming close, while Anatoliy Trubin denied Jules Kounde. Lewandowski also narrowly failed to connect with Pedri's dangerous cross.

The second half saw Raphinha reduce the deficit in a bizarre fashion when Trubin's attempted clearance ricocheted off his head and into the net. Benfica responded swiftly as Ronald Araujo inadvertently turned a cross into his own goal, seemingly dashing Barcelona's hopes.

However, the Catalan side continued their relentless push, with Lewandowski converting another penalty after Nicolas Otamendi fouled Yamal. Barcelona leveled the score when substitute Eric Garcia headed in Pedri's pinpoint cross.

Szczesny redeemed himself with a key save to deny Angel Di Maria late on, setting the stage for Raphinha's decisive goal. A swift counterattack saw the Brazilian winger calmly finish to secure the hard-fought win, leaving Benfica heartbroken.

Barcelona, who last lifted the Champions League trophy in 2015, showcased their resilience and attacking prowess in one of the season's most unforgettable matches.