Barcelona pulled off a spectacular comeback as they defeated SL Benfica 4-5 at Estadio Da Luz, after having been down 3-1 at half-time.
A brace from Robert Lewandowski from the penalty spot, coupled with one other double from Raphinha and an Eric Garcia header clinched it in favour of Hansi Flick’s facet on the night time in Lisbon.
It was removed from a convincing efficiency from Barcelona, who had been troubled a lot by Benfica, however the character and mentality that they confirmed on the night time was standout.
Lewandowski requires enchancment
Talking to the media after the match, Barcelona goalscorer Lewandowski highlighted the significance of successful the sport however insisted that enhancements are wanted from the crew.
“We’ve got gained, and I feel that’s crucial factor, however three of Benfica’s targets had been items from us. It’s higher that we all the time rating yet one more objective than the opponent, however we have to be taught to play higher defensively. Offensively, we additionally lack some issues,” he stated.
“With the rating at 4-4, that they had a goal-scoring alternative. At that time, we lacked calmness and expertise. Now we are able to benefit from the match, and tomorrow we are able to have a look at what we are able to enhance on from at the moment,” the veteran added.
On the incident main as much as the 4-5 scoreline, wherein the Portuguese membership demanded a penalty, Lewandowski stated: “I used to be positive there was no penalty within the final play.”
The Poland captain additionally emphasised the aid of not having to play two further matches, now that Barcelona have secured direct qualification to the Spherical of 16, saying:
“We should play till the top. This victory will be essential for us sooner or later, however it is usually a possibility to analyse what we are able to do higher shifting ahead.
“It will be important to not play the ‘playoff’; two extra matches in February this season is loopy. We can have two lengthy weeks wherein we are able to prepare issues that we often wouldn’t have time for.”
Eric Garcia opens up on his function
Eric Garcia scored the equaliser to make it 4-4. (Picture by Alex Pantling – UEFA/UEFA by way of Getty Photographs)
Eric Garcia changed Jules Kound within the 74th minute, and scored the equalising objective to make it 4-4 within the 86th minute.
The Spanish defender highlighted the importance of such a victory, saying:
“Benfica are a really harmful crew, they induced us quite a lot of issues. It’s an unimaginable victory, we’re very joyful. The crew by no means misplaced give attention to the match.”
Persevering with, he added: “Beginning off by conceding within the second minute… that modifications the plans. The crew has proven an unimaginable mentality. Atlético misplaced right here. They’ve already confirmed how good they’re.”
Concerning his function within the crew, which has been questioned in latest days, Eric Garcia expressed confidence in his future at Barcelona, saying
“I consider that every one gamers need to really feel essential. My job is to take advantage of the minutes I’ve in order that the supervisor modifications his opinion.”
Supply: SPORT