Barcelona rally for draw with Eintracht Frankfurt in Europa League quarterfinal.

Staff Reporter.

Ferran Torres scored for Barcelona as they fought back at Eintracht Frankfurt to earn a draw in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final.

Ansgar Knauff’s superb long-distance strike shortly after half-time raised the prospect of a first Barcelona defeat since December.

But Torres combined brilliantly with Frenkie de Jong before scoring with a low drive.

The hosts had defender Tuta sent off late on but Barca could not capitalise.

That dismissal for two bookings capped a busy evening for English referee Michael Oliver, who earlier awarded Frankfurt a penalty before changing his mind after being sent to the pitchside monitor.

Former Manchester City attacker Torres’s goal means the Spanish side, now unbeaten in 22 games and rejuvenated under manager Xavi, will be favourites to advance to the semi-finals when they meet again for the second leg at the Nou Camp next Thursday.

“The combination between Ousmane, Frenkie and Ferran … it’s a golazo, pure talent from the player,” Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez told reporters afterward.

“They’re a tough side, very physical and they came out like demons on the counter-attack,” Xavi said. “It made it difficult for us. The pitch was not in perfect condition, either, and didn’t help how we wanted to play.

“We created less than usual, but satisfied with the result and now we have the return leg at home. Camp Nou will have to be a pressure cooker for us like their fans were here tonight.”

The winner will meet either West Ham or Lyon in the semi-finals, with that tie evenly poised after a 1-1 first-leg draw at London Stadium.

Scroll to Top