Robert Lewandowski maintained his impressive scoring streak with a brace as Barcelona claimed their third straight Champions League victory, defeating Red Star Belgrade in a dominant performance.
The 36-year-old forward now boasts 19 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions this season, putting him just one goal shy of becoming the third player to reach 100 Champions League goals, joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Lewandowski’s sharp finish off a rebound from Raphinha’s shot restored Barcelona’s lead before halftime, after Inigo Martinez’s 13th-minute header was offset by Silas Katompa Mvumpa’s unexpected equalizer.
Barcelona pulled away early in the second half with two quick goals. Jules Kounde set up both Lewandowski and Raphinha, then later assisted Fermin Lopez for a late goal.
Although substitute Milson scored a curling consolation goal for Red Star, they remain at the bottom of the table in 35th place without a point.
Barcelona’s victory lifts them to sixth in the new 36-team league format, with Lewandowski eyeing his 100th Champions League goal in their upcoming home match against Brest.
Lewandowski closes in on century for free-scoring Barcelona
After an early scare with a disallowed goal for Red Star—Timi Max Elsnik marginally offside—Barcelona took control from the outset in Belgrade. Their dominance paid off as Inigo Martinez connected with Raphinha’s well-placed free-kick to open the scoring.
Despite their commanding play, Barcelona missed several chances, including a close effort from Raphinha, who struck the post directly from a corner and later shot over the bar after being set up by Lamine Yamal.
Red Star momentarily shocked the visitors when Silas chipped a rare chance past Barcelona’s keeper.
However, Lewandowski’s first goal swung momentum firmly back to Barcelona, setting the stage for a dominant second half.
Lewandowski, who now has 99 Champions League goals in 124 appearances, missed an opportunity soon after the break but didn’t miss when Jules Kounde’s cross found him unmarked at the back post.
Kounde then assisted Raphinha minutes later, and completed a hat-trick of assists by setting up Lopez to seal the win.
With a nine-point lead in La Liga and Hansi Flick’s high-scoring side in top form, Barcelona look set to finish in the top eight of the new Champions League format, rebounding strongly after an initial loss to Monaco.
The team has now netted 29 goals in seven consecutive victories, marking the first time since 1959-60 they’ve scored four or more goals in three straight Champions League games, led by Lewandowski’s historic goal-scoring run.