Ferran Torres helps Barcelona edge past Porto with a narrow 1-0 victory

Ferran Torres helps 10-man Barcelona edge past Porto as the Catalan giants earned a hard-fought win in Portugal. The Spaniard replaced Robert Lewandowski after he was hurt by David Carmo’s tackle after the half-hour mark.

Porto started the game well and pressed Barcelona to make errors in their half. Oriol Romeu, who started alongside Gundogan and Gavi, made several mistakes, but Porto were unable to capitalise on the opportunities.

However, when Barca got their chance they did not miss it as Silva Baro’s back pass was latched up by Gundogan he then immediately picked out Torres, who kept his composure to beat Costa as Barca took the lead just before half-time.

Even after going behind, Porto started the second half strongly and were looking for an equaliser. Barca were heavily relying on their centre-back duo Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo.

Ferran Torres on target as Catalan giants secure big victory against Porto

Both defenders had to make last-ditch challenges on Porto winger Pepe broke free in the area. Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi scored an overhead kick, which was immediately ruled out for offside.

Xavi decided to make substitutions in the 69th minute as Sergi Roberto and youngster Fermin Lopez came on to give his team some fresh legs.

Furthermore, in the 77th minute, Porto were awarded the penalty after Joao Cancelo’s handball. However, the decision was overturned, with Barcelona given a free kick due to an Eustaquio handball just before the Cancelo incident.

Barca midfielder Gavi, who was already on a yellow card, was sent off in the added time after grabbing Wendell from the back. Barcelona managed to finish the game with 10-men.

The La Liga champions are now top of Group H after winning two games without conceding a single goal.