FC Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund met on December 11, 2024, at the iconic Signal Iduna Park in a high-stakes UEFA Champions League group stage clash. Both teams entered the match with strong momentum and high expectations. The first half saw intense pressing and smart build-up play from both sides, but neither could find the back of the net. While Barcelona controlled much of the possession, Dortmund looked dangerous on the counter. Despite a few close chances, the first half ended 0-0.
Raphinha Breaks the Deadlock, Guirassy Responds
The game truly came to life in the second half. In the 60th minute, Barcelona finally broke through when Raphinha scored a beautiful goal, assisted by Dani Olmo’s clever through ball that sliced open Dortmund’s defense. However, the lead was short-lived. Just two minutes later, Serhou Guirassy equalized for Dortmund from the penalty spot after he was brought down inside the box. His calm finish brought the game level at 1-1 and set the tone for a dramatic finish.
Ferran Torres Changes the Game
Barcelona coach Xavi made a crucial substitution by bringing on Ferran Torres in the 71st minute. The decision paid off quickly. Only moments after coming on, Torres was in the right place at the right time to slot home a rebound after Fermín López’s shot was parried by the goalkeeper. His goal gave Barcelona a 2-1 lead and silenced the home crowd — but not for long.
Dortmund Fights Back Again
Guirassy wasn’t done yet. Dortmund’s in-form striker once again stepped up, leveling the score at 2-2 with a sharp finish. The back-and-forth nature of the match made it one of the most entertaining Champions League games of the season, with both teams refusing to back down.
Torres Seals It with a Stunning Second Goal
As the clock ticked down, Barcelona launched one final attack. In the 85th minute, Pedri and Lamine Yamal combined brilliantly to start a counter-attack. Torres finished it with precision, scoring his second of the match and giving Barcelona a 3-2 lead. His clinical finishing proved to be the difference, and Barcelona held on through the final minutes to secure all three points.
Barcelona Continues Their Winning Run
This victory marked Barcelona’s fifth consecutive win in the Champions League, showing their strong form under Xavi’s leadership. The win pushed them up to second place in the group with 15 points, securing their place in the next round. For Dortmund, the loss was a blow, dropping them to ninth place with 12 points, though they still remain within reach of qualification depending on future results.
Barcelona vs Dortmund: Head-to-Head Record
The December clash added to an ongoing pattern in this matchup. In their five official meetings in European competitions, Barcelona has never lost to Dortmund. Here’s how the results stand:
January 8, 1998 – Barcelona 2-0 Dortmund (UEFA Super Cup First Leg)
March 11, 1998 – Dortmund 0-0 Barcelona (Super Cup Second Leg)
September 17, 2019 – Dortmund 0-0 Barcelona (Champions League)
November 27, 2019 – Barcelona 3-1 Dortmund (Champions League)
December 11, 2024 – Dortmund 2-3 Barcelona (Champions League)
Dortmund continues to search for their first win against the Spanish giants. Meanwhile, Barcelona’s unbeaten record in this head-to-head gives them a clear psychological edge whenever the two meet.