Messi comes off the bench in the second half, replacing Rafinha to inject creativity into Barcelona’s attack.

Soon after coming on, Messi drives forward and wins a free kick in the attacking half, immediately putting Benfica under pressure.

Messi again carries the ball dangerously and is fouled, earning another free kick in the attacking half for Barcelona.

From a direct free kick, Messi’s left‑footed effort from outside the box flies high and wide to the left, missing the target.

Messi threads a clever through ball toward Cristian Tello, but the move is halted when Tello is flagged offside.

Driving at Benfica’s defence yet again, Messi is fouled and wins another attacking‑half free kick for Barcelona.

Messi unleashes a powerful left‑footed shot from outside the box that is tipped away from the top left corner by the goalkeeper.

Cutting in from the right side of the box, Messi’s left‑footed shot is heading for the top centre of the goal but is saved, denying him a late winner.

After his shot, play is briefly halted as Messi receives treatment for an injury, raising concern on the pitch.

Messi is forced to leave the field injured after Barcelona have already used all their substitutions, leaving his team effectively a man down.