Barcelona Survive Dortmund Scare Despite Guirassy Hat-Trick to Reach Semis

Coming into the second leg at the Westfalenstadion, Barcelona held a commanding 4-0 advantage from the first leg, where Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Lamine Yamal had found the net. However, any thoughts of a comfortable evening were quickly dismissed.

Dortmund started with intense energy, pressing high and unsettling the Spanish champions. Serhou Guirassy, who had missed chances in the first leg, gave the hosts hope by converting a Panenka-style penalty in the 11th minute after spurning earlier opportunities. Barcelona looked rattled, struggling to play out from the back against Dortmund's press, with uncharacteristic errors creeping into their game.

The home side doubled their lead shortly after halftime when Guirassy nodded home from close range following a corner (49'), reducing the aggregate deficit to just two goals and making a comeback seem possible.

Barcelona, however, found a crucial, albeit fortunate, response just five minutes later. A dangerous low cross from Fermin Lopez towards Lewandowski was inadvertently turned into his own net by Dortmund defender Ramy Bensebaini (54'), restoring Barcelona's three-goal cushion on aggregate.

Despite the setback, Dortmund continued to fight. Guirassy completed his remarkable hat-trick in the 76th minute after substitute Julien Duranville created the chance down the right. Dortmund even had the ball in the net again through Julian Brandt, but the goal was correctly disallowed for offside, adding to the late drama.

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong grew into the game, providing more composure in the second half, which helped stem the tide somewhat. Lamine Yamal, a scorer in the first leg, had a relatively quiet night. Ultimately, the first-leg advantage and the timely own goal proved enough for Hansi Flick's side to scrape through despite a nervy finish.

Who scored for Borussia Dortmund?

Serhou Guirassy scored a hat-trick for Dortmund (11', 49', 76').

Who scored for Barcelona?

Barcelona's goal came via an own goal from Dortmund defender Ramy Bensebaini (54').

What was the final aggregate score?

Barcelona won the quarter-final tie 5-3 on aggregate.

Who will Barcelona face in the semi-finals?

Barcelona will play the winner of the quarter-final between Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.

Do you think Barcelona can win the Champions League after this performance? Let us know!

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