Serhou Guirassy, Ramy Bensebaini and Achraf Hakimi were among the standout African performers during the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg clashes, leaving their mark despite mixed fortunes for their respective clubs.
Borussia Dortmund’s Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy delivered a sensational individual performance, scoring a hat-trick that briefly reignited his side’s hopes of overturning the deficit against FC Barcelona.
Guirassy’s clinical finishing not only put the Spanish giants on edge but also elevated him to the top of the competition’s scoring chart with 13 goals.
His hat-trick gave Dortmund a fighting chance after a disappointing first-leg defeat, although the German club ultimately fell short of reaching the semi-finals.
Guirassy’s attacking masterclass was complemented by the efforts of Algerian defender Ramy Bensebaini, who put in a commanding shift in defence despite an unfortunate own goal in Dortmund’s 3-1 loss.
Tasked with neutralising Barcelona’s high-powered frontline, Bensebaini remained composed under pressure and showed resilience throughout the match.
His presence at the back helped Dortmund stay competitive until the final whistle, with fans applauding his commitment and determination.
Though the own goal proved costly, Bensebaini’s performance was viewed as one of leadership and poise. His timely interventions and aerial presence ensured that Dortmund did not collapse under the weight of Barcelona’s attacking waves.
The Algerian’s contribution reminded supporters of his growing reputation as a dependable force in European football.
Meanwhile, Achraf Hakimi flew the African flag high for Paris Saint-Germain in their clash against Aston Villa.
Operating from his familiar right-back position, the Moroccan international put in a solid defensive display despite PSG’s narrow 3-2 defeat at Villa Park.
Known for his speed and ability to transition quickly between defence and attack, Hakimi was instrumental in halting several of Villa’s offensive advances down the flank.
While PSG managed to secure qualification thanks to their first-leg advantage, Hakimi’s consistency over both legs did not go unnoticed.
His disciplined marking and pace on the counterattack played a vital role in managing the English side’s intensity, especially in a high-pressure environment.
As the quarter-finals wrapped up with FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Milan and Arsenal progressing to the semi-finals, African players once again demonstrated their growing influence on Europe’s biggest stage.
Their performances added not just goals and defensive steel but also a sense of leadership and flair that underlines the continent’s contribution to elite club football.
Though not all their teams advanced, the efforts of Guirassy, Bensebaini, and Hakimi were a highlight of the quarter-final round.
Their displays earned praise from analysts and fans alike, reinforcing the continued presence and importance of African talent in the latter stages of the Champions League.
With the semi-finals on the horizon, attention will now turn to whether the remaining African stars can carry their momentum forward—and possibly etch their names even deeper into this season’s Champions League story.
