Raphinha Turns 29 in Style With Match-Winning Brace
Raphinha’s brace against Osasuna not only secured Barcelona’s 2-0 win but also highlighted his remarkable journey from Leeds’ relegation battles to becoming one of La Liga’s most decisive players.
Raphinha’s Match-Winning Performance
- On December 13, 2025, Raphinha struck twice in the second half to give Barcelona a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Osasuna at Camp Nou.
- His goals came in the 70th and 86th minutes, breaking down Osasuna’s stubborn defense.
- The win pushed Barcelona seven points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga, with Hansi Flick’s side now sitting on 43 points.
From Leeds to Barcelona Glory
- Raphinha’s career arc is striking: he was once battling relegation in the Premier League with Leeds United, where his flair and pressing stood out despite the team’s struggles.
- His move to Barcelona transformed his trajectory. Last season, he was crowned La Liga Player of the Year, delivering an astonishing 34 goals and 25 assists.
- This season, he has already contributed 42 goal involvements, underlining his consistency and importance to Barça’s title charge.
Why Fans Love Him
- Grit and pressing: Raphinha is praised for his relentless work rate, pressing defenders high up the pitch.
- Clutch factor: He often delivers in decisive moments, as seen in the Osasuna match.
- Versatility: Comfortable on either wing, he combines pace, dribbling, and vision to unlock defenses.
Barcelona’s Title Hopes
- With Real Madrid still chasing and having a game in hand, Raphinha’s form is crucial.
- His brace came on the eve of his 29th birthday, a symbolic reminder of his maturity and leadership in the squad.
- Coach Hansi Flick emphasized after the match that Raphinha is “very important” to the team’s success.
The Bigger Picture
Raphinha’s journey is a story of resilience: from the struggles of English football to becoming Barcelona’s talisman. His numbers rival the best in Europe, and his ability to combine flair with hard work makes him a fan favorite. As Barcelona chase another La Liga crown, Raphinha’s consistency and big-game impact could be the decisive factor in keeping them ahead of Real Madrid.
In short: Raphinha’s brace against Osasuna was more than just three points, it was a statement of his evolution into Barcelona’s heartbeat and a reminder that his prime years are fueling the club’s dominance.