Barcelona secured automatic qualification for the Champions League last 16 after coming from behind to defeat Copenhagen, with Marcus Rashford sealing the victory.
The Manchester United loanee scored a sublime free-kick for his fifth goal of the campaign, confirming Barcelona’s place in the top eight. Hansi Flick’s side finished fifth in the league standings, while Copenhagen ended the competition in 31st and missed out on the play-offs.
The hosts were unsettled early and fell behind in the fourth minute when Mohamed Elyounoussi carried the ball from halfway before slipping a pass to 17-year-old Viktor Dadason, who finished calmly. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Barcelona were unable to equalise before the break, trailing at half-time for the fifth time in this season’s competition.
Barcelona’s response after the interval was swift. Three minutes into the second half, Lamine Yamal teed up Robert Lewandowski to score from close range, bringing up the striker’s 107th Champions League goal. Yamal then doubled the lead, his curling effort deflecting beyond the goalkeeper.
Lewandowski was later fouled by Junnosuke Suzuki in the penalty area, allowing captain Raphinha to convert confidently from the spot. Rashford then capped the comeback with a goal 10 minutes after coming off the bench, ensuring a comfortable win for the Spanish champions.
Copenhagen had a late effort ruled out for offside and were unable to cope with Barcelona’s intensity after the break, leaving them frustrated at missing out on a play-off place despite their bright start.
