Szczesny's Stunning Form Could Give Barcelona The Edge Against Benfica

Barcelona entered their Champions League last-16 second leg against Benfica on Tuesday with a narrow 1-0 advantage, and much of the credit goes to Wojciech Szczesny.

While Pedri was named Man of the Match for his role in the first-leg victory in Lisbon, Szczesny jokingly claimed he deserved half of the award-an assessment his teammate fully agreed with.

The 34-year-old Polish goalkeeper will have another opportunity to shine at the Olympic Stadium, with Benfica forced to attack to turn the tie around.

Szczesny's crucial saves kept 10-man Barcelona afloat after Pau Cubarsi's early red card, preserving the lead given to them by Raphinha's goal. It was his best display since joining Barca on an emergency deal in October following Marc-Andre ter Stegen's serious knee injury.

Szczesny's journey to becoming Barcelona's No. 1 has been nothing short of remarkable. In August 2024, the former Arsenal and Juventus stopper retired from football, terminating his contract with Juve and settling in Marbella to enjoy life on the golf course.