Jules Koundé proved the hero for Barcelona as his rapid-fire brace in the second half propelled the Catalans to a crucial 2–1 comeback victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, boosting their push for Champions League knockout qualification.
Barça were staring at trouble at the break after Ansgar Knauff’s composed finish put the visitors ahead at the Spotify Camp Nou.
The German winger shrugged off Alejandro Balde before drilling low into the corner, leaving the home fans stunned.
Hansi Flick’s men had earlier seen Robert Lewandowski’s crisp strike ruled out for an offside in the build-up, while Frankfurt keeper Michael Zetterer denied Gerard Martín with a spectacular save as chances went begging.
The Germans nearly doubled their lead before halftime when Knauff set up Ellyes Skhiri, whose curling effort drifted narrowly over, sending a warning to the La Liga champions.
Flick responded with a bold change at the restart, introducing Marcus Rashford and it paid off instantly. The Manchester United loanee swung in a pinpoint cross on 50 minutes, and Koundé rose highest to nod home the equaliser, igniting the stadium.
Just three minutes later, the French defender struck again, meeting Lamine Yamal’s teasing delivery at the back post to turn the game on its head.
Yamal continued to threaten, flashing a strike just wide as Barcelona chased the goal that would secure comfort.
However, Koundé’s quick double ultimately proved enough to keep Barça firmly in the race in a tightly packed league-phase standings.
