Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski delivered a standout performance, scoring twice as they secured a commanding 5-2 win over Crvena Zvezda in an exhilarating Champions League clash on Wednesday.
Barcelona led 2-1 at halftime in Belgrade but faced stiff resistance as both sides traded chances. The visitors struck first after 13 minutes when Martínez connected with a diving header. Crvena Zvezda responded just before the half-hour, with Silas capitalizing on a defensive lapse to loft a precise chip over goalkeeper Peña, leveling the score.
Red Star’s Ndiaye narrowly missed a chance to edge his team ahead, and Barcelona quickly made him pay. Just before the break, Lewandowski tapped in his third Champions League goal of the season, seizing on Raphinha’s rebound off the post.
Barcelona extended their advantage shortly after the restart. Lewandowski netted his second goal in the 53rd minute, and Raphinha added another just two minutes later, making it 4-1. With the game firmly under control, Fermin Lopez piled on a fifth late in the match, hitting the crossbar and forcing Red Star’s keeper Ilic into a fine save.
Crvena Zvezda continued to press and were rewarded in the 84th minute when Milson curled a consolation goal, reducing the deficit to 5-2.
What is next for both teams
The victory moves Barcelona to sixth in the standings ahead of their next fixture against Brest.
Meanwhile, Crvena Zvezda sits second from bottom, still searching for their first points, as they prepare to face German club Stuttgart.
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