Lewandowski Nears Historic 100 Goals As Barcelona Thrash Red Star Belgrade.
Robert Lewandowski continued his remarkable form with a double as Barcelona secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League, marking their third consecutive win in the competition. The 36-year-old Polish striker, now on 99 Champions League goals, is just one away from joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as the only players to score a century in Europe’s elite competition.
Barcelona took an early lead through Inigo Martinez, who headed in from a Raphinha free-kick, but Red Star momentarily levelled as Silas Katompa Mvumpa chipped home a rare chance against the run of play. Lewandowski restored Barcelona’s lead just before half-time, reacting swiftly after Raphinha’s shot came off the post.
The Catalan side shifted into top gear in the second half, quickly pulling away from the Serbian champions. Jules Kounde provided assists for both Lewandowski’s second and Raphinha’s goal, before setting up Fermin Lopez to seal the emphatic win. A late consolation goal from Red Star’s Milson was not enough to dampen Barcelona’s celebrations, as they rose to sixth in the new 36-team league format.
Red Star remain winless and at the bottom of the table in 35th position, while Barcelona’s victory sees them continue their impressive scoring spree, having netted 29 goals in their last seven games. This is the first time since the 1959-60 season that Barcelona have scored four or more goals in three consecutive Champions League matches.
Nine points clear at the top of La Liga, Hansi Flick’s high-flying Barcelona are on track to secure a top-eight finish in the Champions League, firmly positioning themselves as serious contenders in both domestic and European campaigns. Lewandowski’s next chance to make history will come at home against Brest later this month, as he aims to join the exclusive 100-goal club in the Champions League.
