Barcelona get set to take on PSG in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals tomorrow in Montjuic.
The Blaugrana go into the game with a slight advantage thanks to a 3-2 win from the first leg at Parc des Princes in France last week.
And the aim is to finish the job at home on Tuesday night and secure a spot in the semifinals of the competition, where they would be facing one of Atletico Madrid or Borussia Dortmund.
On the eve of the match, Xavi addressed the media at his pre-match press conference, talking about the situation and mentality of the team heading into perhaps the biggest game of the season thus far.
Starting things off, Xavi gave an insight into what he expects to see from PSG and the game in general tomorrow, as he said:
“It’s a great opportunity for us as a club. We’re playing at home and Montjuïc has to resemble the great nights at Camp Nou. PSG will not go out to speculate and will match our man-to-man system.
“We have to show a lot of personality to get through to the semi-finals. It will be a brave PSG and we have home advantage, but it will be a very difficult game. We’re excited in the good sense of the word.”
On his personal feelings heading into the contest, Xavi remarked: “I’m feeling good, motivated for tomorrow. I’m very proud to be able to qualify for the semi-finals. Barcelona fans are too. It’s a great opportunity.
“Victories are a relief, but defeats don’t let you breathe. I’m with Ancelotti. I’m euphoric and excited to be where we are.”
Stressing the importance of two of his midfield stalwarts in Pedri and Ilkay Gundogan, Xavi said: “I like them both. I can imagine them making the last pass. It’s the great quality they have. They give us pause and tempo.
“Tomorrow is a difficult game for the midfielders. We will be up against one of the most intense teams in the world. If Gündogan and Pedri have space and time, we’ll gain a lot.”
When asked if Pedri is ready to play…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/xavi-talks-pedri-yamal-cubarsi-dembele-raphinha-guardiola-enrique-ahead-of-barcelona-vs-psg/
Author : Michel Durant
Publish date : 2024-04-15 12:16:00
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