Nigerian international Christy Ucheibe put in a rock-solid defensive performance despite Benfica Women being held to a dramatic 4-4 draw by Barcelona Femenino in the UEFA Women’s Champions League on Wednesday night.

Deployed as part of the three-woman defense to stifle Barcelona’s star-studded attack, Ucheibe demonstrated resilience throughout the match. Her tenacity was evident in crucial moments, conceding corners and halting potential threats.

However, Barcelona Femenino were the first to take the lead with Caroline Graham Hansen’s header in the 18th minute and Patri Guijarro’s clinical finish two minutes later; but Benfica Women responded with Marie-Yasmine Alidou’s well-taken goal in the 26th minute, narrowing the gap to 2-1.

Alidou continued her heroics, scoring again with a precise header in the 45th minute from Andrea Falcón’s pinpoint cross, leveling the score at 2-2 going into halftime.

Hansen struck again for Barcelona in the 54th minute, but Benfica’s Jéssica Silva swiftly responded with a goal, capitalizing on a fast break and an assist by Nycole Raysla in the 71st minute.

In the 81st minute, Benfica Women took the lead again with an own goal by Barcelona’s Lucy Bronze. However, the game saw a delay in the 85th minute due to an injury to Nigeria’s Christy Ucheibe, forcing her substitution in the 90th minute. Despite Benfica’s 4th goal in the 81st minute, Barcelona’s Lucy Bronze redeemed herself by heading home a corner kick in added time (90+6), sealing the 4-4 draw.

Injury Concerns for Ucheibe

The match concluded on an intense note, but concerns linger over Christy Ucheibe’s injury. Substituted in the 90th minute due to the injury, Benfica will be anxiously awaiting updates on her condition.

Looking Ahead

Despite the draw, both teams have already qualified for the next stage of the Champions League. However, Benfica will no doubt be hoping Ucheibe’s injury is minor as they prepare to face Maritimo Women’s team in the Portuguese women’s league on Sunday.