Marcus Rashford etched his name into Champions League history as Barcelona powered to a commanding 4–1 victory over FC Copenhagen, with the England forward delivering a late moment of brilliance off the bench. His stunning free kick not only capped the win but also placed him alongside Manchester United legend Sir David Beckham in an exclusive European club.
Barcelona were already in control when Rashford was introduced with 18 minutes remaining, yet the forward wasted little time making his impact. The 28-year-old swept a precise free kick over the wall and into the bottom corner in the 85th minute, sealing a dominant night for Hansi Flick’s side.
The goal was Rashford’s ninth for Barcelona since arriving on loan and underlined his growing influence in Spain. It also carried added significance, matching a rare Champions League achievement previously held alone by Beckham.
Rashford is now one of only two English players to have scored a direct free kick for two different clubs in the Champions League. Beckham set the benchmark during his spells at Manchester United and Real Madrid, becoming renowned for his set piece excellence on the biggest stage.
The result strengthened Barcelona’s position in the competition and continued Rashford’s productive run in Europe. After a difficult period at Manchester United and a brief revival during a loan spell at Aston Villa, his move to Camp Nou has offered a fresh platform to rediscover confidence and consistency.
The atmosphere inside the stadium reflected Barcelona’s authority from the opening stages, with the hosts dominating possession and pinning Copenhagen deep. Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong dictated the tempo, repeatedly opening spaces between the lines.
Barcelona’s early control translated into clear chances, forcing Copenhagen’s goalkeeper into several sharp saves. The visitors struggled to cope with the speed of the passing and the movement in wide areas, particularly as the home side pushed men forward.
Goals arrived in waves as Barcelona capitalised on their pressure, combining incisive build up play with clinical finishing. Copenhagen briefly threatened to respond but were unable to shift the momentum, with Barcelona’s defensive structure remaining compact and composed.
Rashford’s contribution came at the perfect moment. His free kick was struck with minimal backlift, curling over the wall before dipping low beyond the goalkeeper’s reach, a goal that drew immediate recognition from teammates and staff alike.
The second half saw Barcelona manage the game intelligently, rotating possession and limiting risk while continuing to probe for openings. Substitutions added fresh energy, with Rashford’s pace stretching an already fatigued defence.
Late on, Copenhagen showed signs of urgency, but Barcelona remained in control, closing out the match with confidence and composure. Rashford’s goal provided the final highlight in a performance that blended control with moments of quality.
The victory keeps Barcelona firmly on track in the Champions League and adds further weight to discussions around Rashford’s long-term future at the club. With a permanent transfer option included in his loan deal, the forward’s form continues to make a compelling case as the season enters its decisive phase.
2 – Marcus Rashford is one of only two English players to score a direct free kick for two different teams in the UEFA Champions League (Man Utd & Barcelona), after David Beckham (Man Utd & Real Madrid). Trajectory. pic.twitter.com/7nt9xha76B
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) January 28, 2026
