Manager says he can see more positives than negatives after second-leg performance
Hansi Flick is convinced Barcelona will have a “spectacular” season despite their Copa del Rey exit at the hands of Atletico Madrid.
The Catalans put up a courageous fight in the second leg of the semi-final at Camp Nou and after winning 3-0, were only a goal away from achieving a historic comeback after losing 4-0 in the first leg.
“I’m proud of the team,” Flick said. “We gave everything from the start. We’re disappointed because we wanted to be in the final. We deserved it for today’s match.
“We have to respect what Atletico has done. They’re a great team. They did very well, defending their lead.”
Marc Bernal scored twice and Raphinha converted from the spot but despite going close in the closing stages, Flick’s side were unable to find the decisive goal.
However, there is still much to play for this season. Barcelona have won the Spanish Super Cup and remain top of La Liga, four points clear of second-placed Real Madrid. In the Champions League they face Newcastle for a spot in the quarter-finals.
Flick said Barcelona’s performance against Atletico showed that they can still achieve a lot the rest of the season.
”We gave it our all, and coming back from 4-0 down is no easy feat,” Flick said. “We could have done better in the first leg, but there’s no point in making excuses.
“With the fans’ support, it was much easier. We were just one goal away from leveling the tie. I’m leaving feeling quite proud, with more positives than negatives.
“If we keep playing like we did today, we’ll have a spectacular end to the season.”
