Barcelona secured a vital 4-2 victory over Slavia Prague in the Champions League league phase, coming from behind to boost their top-eight hopes. Robert Lewandowski scored at both ends in an entertaining match in Czechia. The win moves Hansi Flick's side to ninth place ahead of their final game.
In a thrilling Champions League league phase encounter on January 21, 2026, Barcelona traveled to Prague needing a win to keep their automatic qualification dreams alive. Slavia Prague, winless in six matches and having scored just two goals in the phase, stunned the visitors early. Less than 10 minutes in, Vasil Kusej bundled home from a corner by Michal Sadilek, glanced on by Tomas Holes, to give the hosts a 1-0 lead and spark jubilant scenes.
Barcelona had squandered a chance moments earlier when Fermin Lopez blazed over from inside the box. The Blaugrana responded on 34 minutes, with Lopez equalizing after a through ball from Frenkie de Jong following link-up play with Raphinha. Lopez then struck again shortly after, curling in from the edge of the box to complete the comeback and make it 2-1.
However, Slavia leveled before half-time through an unfortunate own goal by Lewandowski, who headed into his own net from a corner. After the break, Barcelona showed class. Pedri had a chance saved early in the second half, and De Jong's goal was disallowed by VAR after two saves by Jindrich Stanek.
Substitutes Dani Olmo and Marcus Rashford entered just after the hour mark. Olmo restored Barcelona's lead two minutes later, curling a loose ball into the top corner. With 20 minutes remaining, Rashford crossed for Lewandowski, who headed in to seal the 4-2 victory and atone for his earlier error.
Hansi Flick's team, starting the night 15th and two points outside the top eight, now sit ninth, level on points with teams above them. Their final league phase match is at home against FC Copenhagen. Slavia, unable to qualify, deserve credit for the scare they gave their favored opponents.
