Barcelona coach is delighted with how the team responded after Pau Cubarsi received a red card early in the first half.
With one man down, Barcelona had to defend with all their might against Benfica’s attacking pressure. The team had to endure immense pressure at their opponent’s ground, yet they showed remarkable resilience without breaking down. Hansi Flick was impressed by the team’s determination. The Barcelona coach expressed pride in his players’ relentless effort, sacrifice, and bravery against Benfica.
In the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, Barcelona won 1-0, with a brilliant goal from Raphinha making the difference.
In the 22nd minute, 18-year-old defender Pau Cubarsi was sent off with a straight red card. However, the way the team reacted, showing maturity and handling the defense, pleased Flick immensely.
In an interview with Spanish TV station Movistar Plus after the match, the Barcelona coach praised his players.
“It’s an extraordinary victory. Not just the win, but the way it came about excites us. We defended very well. We defended as a team, and that’s the most important thing for us. It was a collective effort,” Flick said.
“Even though we went down to 10 men early in the first half, we managed the match very well, and the response was fantastic. It wasn’t easy. We still have the second leg to play. Benfica is a good team, and we need to keep an eye on them.”
Flick is not blaming Cubarsi for the red card. He stands by the young Spanish defender.
“Things like this happen in football; it happened to us today. We all make mistakes. What’s most important is how we respond. Today, the reaction was outstanding,” he added.
Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny made a major contribution to Barcelona’s win, saving eight shots. Flick had called the veteran out of retirement to help the team after first-choice goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen was ruled out for an extended period. Flick believes the Polish goalkeeper has settled in well with the team.
“Szczęsny was extraordinary. It’s clear that he’s a different player now compared to when he first joined. He’s more confident with each match. That’s why we’re performing better defensively. I knew he could play at this level because I see him in training every day. It’s fantastic for us.”
Next Tuesday, Barcelona will face Benfica in the second leg. Before that, they will meet Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday.
