Barcelona secured their spot in the Copa del Rey semifinals with a 2-1 win against Albacete. While it was not the most straightforward match, Hansi Flick left the field pleased with both the outcome and the performance of his team.
The coach emphasized the challenges posed by knockout matches, especially amid a hectic schedule.
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Barcelona faced pressure until the very end, but Flick believed his players demonstrated the necessary maturity to handle a difficult match and ultimately earned their advancement.
After the game, Flick highlighted the significance of simply achieving victory.
“These are the games we need to win. We’re in the semifinals, and we’re happy,” he stated, as reported by MARCA.
Match Insights
Flick elaborated on the overall team performance, acknowledging a late scare while praising their consistent effort throughout the match.
He pointed out the demanding schedule Barcelona is currently navigating.
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“It was a tough match. We created many opportunities. I’m proud of the team, especially considering we play every three days. They are always ready and prepared. We deserved the win.”
One area where Flick expressed concern was the team’s finishing ability in front of goal.
Despite generating multiple chances, the Blaugrana were unable to secure the match earlier.
“Cup matches are always challenging. We had plenty of opportunities, but we need to be more efficient in finishing them,” he noted.
“In the end, it was a fair result. The match was quite balanced, but we need to refine our finishing.”
Keeping Up the Momentum
Barcelona earned a hard-fought victory. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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The closing moments of the match were tense, but Flick dismissed any notion that his players lost concentration or composure.
Instead, he reiterated their mentality in high-pressure situations.
“There’s nothing to criticize about their mentality or attitude. I was pleased with my team; these Cup matches must be won, and we’re happy,” he asserted.
The packed schedule was another topic Flick addressed, stressing the limited recovery time his squad has experienced recently.
He highlighted both the physical and mental challenges faced by players, stating,
“We play every three days. Wednesday, Saturday, today is Tuesday. In less than a week, we’ve played three matches. The team is always available and ready.”
Substitutions and Araujo’s Performance
Flick also commended the contributions from those who came off the bench, emphasizing the necessity of rotation during such a busy schedule.
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Regarding the substitutes, he remarked, “We made six changes, and that is important to recognize. Some players who usually get less playing time performed well.”
Additionally, the Barcelona coach highlighted Ronald Araujo, who scored and played a significant role despite not being fully recovered.
Flick discussed the goal’s importance for Araujo’s confidence.
“He’s progressing steadily, which is crucial. The goal will boost his confidence and improve his self-assurance,” he noted.
“We fully support him and stand behind him. He was tired toward the end, but he had a good match and scored an important goal for both him and us,” he concluded.