Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez stresses the importance of winning the first leg of the King’s Cup semi-final against Real Madrid.
-
Xavi confirmed that this victory will raise the morale of Barcelona
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez praised the efforts of his players and his team after winning against Real Madrid (1-0) at the “Santiago Bernabeu” stadium, in the first leg of the King’s Cup semi-final.
Xavi acknowledged that Real Madrid “dominated the course of the game,” while Barcelona’s performance was limited to defensive organization without the ball, without considering that a betrayal of the “Blaugrana” style.
Xavi said in a press conference after the match: “The first goal was to get the ball, but we were not able to. We suffered unnecessary losses, they defended man to man, and tried to hurt us, but we defended well without the ball.”
He added: “It was important to give up a little bit and I think we did. We can control the game when we have the ball, so this game didn’t go the way we wanted. We work hard defensively because there are moments in the season when the opposition can control you and you have to pass.” That’s how you can take the ball away from Modric and Kroos? It’s very difficult.”
Xavi stressed that this victory will raise the morale of the team and give it confidence to face the other goal of the season, which is the Spanish League.
Xavi pointed to Barcelona’s inability to find a solution to Real Madrid’s control and possession, saying, “It was difficult, and we could have tied, but the team was wonderful in terms of it.”
Barcelona won with a goal scored by Real Madrid player Militao by mistake in his own net in the first half, and the return match will be played at the “Spotify Camp Nou” stadium, on the 5th of next April.
