Xavi Hernandez asserts that Barcelona surpassed Napoli in their journey to the Champions League quarter-finals and asserts their readiness to compete further. Given the absence of the away goals rule in UEFA tournaments, the match at the Estadi Olimpic de Montjuic was a decisive encounter where only the victor prevailed.
“I think we deserved it more than Napoli, we did better in attack, defence and of course scored more goals,” Xavi told Sport Mediaset.
During the course of the match, the momentum appeared to favor the team as Fermin Lopez and Joao Cancelo capitalized on defensive lapses, swiftly increasing their lead to 2-0. However, Amir Rrahmani’s contribution helped to revive the opposition’s chances in the match.
Jesper Lindstrom’s missed opportunity, failing to convert a free header, posed a significant threat to the hosts’ aspirations. Furthermore, the potential penalty claim involving Victor Osimhen, who was seemingly fouled by Pau Cubarsi, added to the drama of the encounter. Nonetheless, Robert Lewandowski’s decisive goal secured a 3-1 victory for the team on the night, resulting in a 4-2 aggregate triumph.
“Napoli are a quality team who move the ball around well and had some good scoring opportunities. We had deserved more at the Stadio Maradona too, as we dominated there.”
Barcelona’s advancement to the quarter-finals of the Champions League marks a significant milestone, considering their failure to reach this stage for the past four consecutive years, consistently faltering in the Round of 16 phase.
“We are in the eight top teams in Europe and that is great for Barcelona and all the Barcelona fans.”
Xavi demonstrated a bold strategy amidst a period of injury setbacks by fielding teenagers Lamine Yamal and Cubarsi in the starting lineup, with the latter emerging as the standout performer, earning the title of Man of the Match.
Should Inter succeed in overcoming Atletico Madrid in their upcoming match following a 1-0 lead from the first leg, Barcelona will secure qualification for the 2025 Club World Cup.
“It is important to think about ourselves and not the others. I think we can compete in the quarter-finals, I am really pleased with the team and proud of the lads.”