Barcelona thrashed Newcastle United 7-2 to secure an emphatic 8-3 aggregate victory and advance to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.

Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski scored twice each, as Barcelona delivered a dominant performance at the Nou Camp.

Newcastle showed resilience in the first half, with Anthony Elanga netting twice to cancel out early Barcelona goals.

Raphinha opened the scoring in the 6th minute before Elanga equalised in the 15th minute, while Marc Bernal restored Barcelona’s lead in the 18th minute in a lively encounter.

Elanga struck again to level proceedings in the 28th minute, but Lamine Yamal’s late first-half penalty gave Barcelona a 3-2 advantage.

The penalty followed a VAR decision after Kieran Trippier was adjudged to have fouled Raphinha in the box.

Barcelona took full control after the break, scoring four unanswered goals to put the tie beyond Newcastle.

Fermin Lopez extended the lead early in the second half after a precise assist from Raphinha in the 51st minute.

Lewandowski then scored twice in quick succession in the 56th and 61st minutes, capitalising on defensive lapses by the visitors.

Raphinha completed his brace later, sealing an emphatic victory after intercepting a poor pass in the 72nd minute.

Newcastle’s defensive frailties proved costly, despite a spirited first-half display at a packed Nou Camp.

Coach Eddie Howe’s side struggled to contain Barcelona’s attacking intensity in the second half.

Barcelona’s clinical finishing and creativity overwhelmed Newcastle as the match progressed.

The Spanish giants will now face Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals of the competition.

Barcelona head into the next round in strong form, having delivered one of the standout performances of the round. 

(NAN)