Wojciech Szczesny put in a simply brilliant showing for [Barcelona on Wednesday night](https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2025/3/5/24377905/benfica-barcelona-champions-league-round-16-1st-leg-final-score-match-report-recap-reactions) as Hansi Flick’s men beat Benfica 1-0 in the Champions League.
The goalkeeper had a busy night, particularly after Barca were reduced to 10 men, but simply would not be beaten as he kept a priceless clean sheet.
According to Opta, Szczesny also made club history with his performance as he made eight saves - a new record by a Barcelona goalkeeper since they started keeping count back in 2003-04.
Pedri was quick to praise [his goalkeeper for “saving” the team](https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2025/3/5/24378791/szczesny-saved-us-pedri-hails-barcelona-goalkeeper-after-benfica-win) after the match, with the result leaving Flick’s side in good shape ahead of the return.
Goalscorer Raphinha was also happy with his goalkeeper’s performance. He said afterwards: “I’ve got Szczesny in my fantasy team, safe to say he’s given me a good rating.”
Barca now head home to take on Osasuna in La Liga before facing Benfica again on Tuesday for the return.