Brazilian winger Raphinha is having an outstanding season with FC Barcelona in the Champions League. With his brace and assist in the 4-0 thrashing of Borussia Dortmund, he has now accumulated 12 goals and 7 assists in this edition of the tournament, matching a record set by Lionel Messi in the 2011-2012 season. Now, his goal is even bigger: surpassing the all-time record held by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Raphinha aims for Cristiano Ronaldo’s record

At 28 years old, Raphinha is experiencing the best season of his career. Until now, his goal-scoring numbers had not been his strongest asset, with his highest tally in a single campaign being 11 goals with Leeds United in the 2021-2022 Premier League. However, this year, he has taken a major leap forward, driven by his maturity and the leadership role he has assumed in the Barcelona dressing room, especially in the absence of Marc-André ter Stegen and Ronald Araújo.

His attacking partnership with Robert Lewandowski and young talent Lamine Yamal has been crucial to his goal-scoring surge. Under Hansi Flick’s management, Barcelona has enhanced its offensive play, and Raphinha has become a key figure in the system. In LaLiga, he has contributed 13 goals and 10 assists in 28 matches, but his best performances have come in the Champions League, where he is on the verge of making history.

The record he is now chasing is the one set by Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2013-2014 Champions League, when the Portuguese star was involved in 21 goals in just 11 matches (17 goals and 4 assists), leading Real Madrid to the historic Décima. With at least one more game to play, and up to four if Barcelona reaches the final, Raphinha has a real chance to surpass this legendary milestone.

A decisive impact at Barcelona

The match against Borussia Dortmund was yet another example of Raphinha’s incredible form. His first goal, though aided by a deflection from Pau Cubarsí, showcased his attacking instincts. Later, he provided assists for Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal, solidifying himself as the most influential player on the pitch.

With Barcelona thriving in Europe and Raphinha playing at his peak, the possibility of breaking Cristiano Ronaldo’s record is more alive than ever. If he maintains this level, the Brazilian could not only lead his team to the semifinals but also etch his name into Champions League history.