Raphinha Targets Redemption Against Benfica

Raphinha, one of Barcelona's standout players this season, is preparing for a pivotal match against Benfica. For the Brazilian winger, this is more than just a Champions League fixture—it is a personal mission to overcome a haunting winless record against the Portuguese powerhouse.

During his time in Portugal, Raphinha spent four seasons showcasing his talent with Vitória Guimarães and Sporting CP. Yet, in eight encounters against Benfica, he could not secure a single victory. These matches included six league clashes and two Super Cup finals, cementing Benfica as his nemesis in Portuguese football.

At Vitória Guimarães, Raphinha faced Benfica five times, losing each game. Despite scoring one of his team's two goals in these encounters, victory remained elusive. His move to Sporting CP in 2018 promised a fresh start but yielded similar results: two losses and a goalless draw, with Benfica again triumphing in a Super Cup final.

That final, played on August 4, 2019, marked Raphinha's last match in Portugal before moving to Rennes. Despite the defeats, his individual performances were notable—he started in seven out of eight matches, playing nearly full games each time. These experiences have made his upcoming match with Benfica more personal.

Fast-forward to the present, and Raphinha is in electrifying form at Barcelona. By January, he has already netted 20 goals this season, equaling his total from his first two seasons combined at the club. With Barcelona excelling in La Liga and Europe, this could be the stage for Raphinha to finally rewrite his history with Benfica.