FC Barcelona are through to the Champions League semi-finals. The blaugranes overcame Sporting CP in a hugely intense and evenly matched contest that was only decided in the closing moments of extra time, when Marc Grau stepped up with two decisive goals. Sergi Fernández was also crucial, producing a string of vital saves throughout the match.

The first goal arrived with less than two minutes remaining in extra time, while the second came into an empty net to seal both the victory and Barça’s place in Saturday’s semi-final against Benfica.

Perfect balance

It quickly became clear in the opening 25 minutes that this Champions League quarter-final would be anything but straightforward. In an extremely even first half, the defences came out on top against the attacks. Both sides created chances, with Barça threatening through Alabart, Llorca, Font and Aragonès. But the defensive solidity of both teams, together with the performances of goalkeepers Sergi Fernández and Xano Edo, meant the match remained goalless at the break.

After the restart Barça came out stronger and immediately began to create the first real openings. Font then had the clearest chance of the game up to that point from a set piece, but Edo saved his penalty.

For Barça, Álvarez and Alabart both came close to breaking the deadlock, but this Champions League quarter-final between Barça and Sporting CP was ultimately forced into extra time.

Marc Grau delivers

Barça began extra time the better side, and Sergi Llorca had a clear opportunity against Xano Edo, but the former Barça goalkeeper came up with another huge save in the 52nd minute. Sergi Fernández was equally decisive at the other end, producing a wall-like performance that Sporting simply could not break down.

Finally, in the closing stages, Marc Grau beat Xano Edo to break the deadlock with less than two minutes remaining. There was still time for more. After winning possession back, and with Sporting fully committed in attack, Grau struck again into an empty net to put the result beyond doubt.

A thoroughly deserved victory sends Barça straight into Saturday’s semi-finals. Next up: Benfica.

MATCH STATS

BARÇA, 2
SPORTING CP, 0 

Barça: Sergi Fernández, Alabart, Marc Grau, Ferran Font, Aragonès, Pablo Álvarez, Xavi Barroso, Sergi Llorca, Eloi Cervera. 

Sporting CP: Xano Edo, Rafa Bessa, Danilo Rampulla, Henrique Magalhães, Gonzalo Romero, Diogo Barata, Roc Pujadas, Santiago Honório, Facundo Bridge.

Goals: 1-0, Marc Grau (min 59). 2-0, Marc Grau (min 59). Fouls: 9-8.

Referees: Marco Rondina, Filippo Fronte.

Força Barça