Barcelona forward breaks Lionel Messi’s Champions League record

While Lamine Yamal stole the headlines with his dazzling performance against Inter Milan, it would be unkind not to acknowledge another key figure in Barcelona’s thrilling 3-3 Champions League semi-final draw—Raphinha.

The Brazilian winger quietly yet decisively left his mark on the contest, delivering when it mattered most and making history along the way.

Raphinha provided the crucial assist for Ferran Torres’ goal and also played a direct role in Barça’s third, which was ultimately ruled as an own goal by Yann Sommer.

Breaking Messi’s record
These contributions were more than just flashes of brilliance, as they were historic. With this, Raphinha became the Barcelona player with the most goal involvements in a single European campaign, surpassing none other than Lionel Messi.

It must be noted that in the 2011–12 season, the Argentine had 19 direct goal involvements (14 goals and 5 assists).

Raphinha has now tallied 20 (12 goals, 8 assists), a staggering figure that cements his status as one of the most impactful players in Europe this season.