Jules Kounde scores twice in three minutes as Barcelona seal their third win in Champions League
Score: Barcelona 2-1 Eintracht Frankfurt
Barcelona: Jules Kounde (50', 53')
Eintracht Frankfurt: Ansgar Knauff (23')
Barcelona entered their sixth Champions League match with three changes from the game against Real Betis three days earlier. Ferran Torres, who scored a hat-trick, was replaced by Robert Lewandowski. Fermín López returned to the starting lineup, and Marcus Rashford stayed on the bench as Raphinha made his comeback.
Both teams tried to create early chances. In the 5th minute, Robert Lewandowski had a chance but failed to open the scoring. Barcelona continued pressing, but Frankfurt’s defence held firm. Despite dominating possession, Barcelona could not find a breakthrough - and they paid the price.
In the 23rd minute, Ansgar Knauff capitalized on a loose ball from Lamine Yamal inside the box and fired it into the back of the net to give Frankfurt the lead. Barcelona pushed for an equalizer but were unable to find one, and the first half ended 0-1 with no breakthrough for the home team.
In the second half, Hansi Flick brought on Marcus Rashford for Fermín López, with Raphinha moving centrally. The former Manchester United forward made an immediate impact. In the 50th minute, Rashford sprinted down the flank and crossed for Jules Kounde, who headed in the equalizer. Just three minutes later, the French defender scored another header - this time from Lamine Yamal’s cross - giving Barcelona the lead.
After their two quick goals, Barcelona continued searching for another, while Frankfurt pushed to level the match. However, both sides failed to convert their chances, and the game ended in a victory for the home team.
With this important win, Barcelona temporarily moved up to 14th place with 10 points, remaining in the Top 24 with only two group-stage matches left. As for Frankfurt, they have just one win after six matches, sit 30th, and are almost out of contention for the next round.
With this important win in the Champions League, Barcelona will return to La Liga action on Saturday when they host Osasuna, with a chance to extend their lead over Real Madrid and Villarreal, who both play on Sunday.
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