Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-13 09:51:17
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez expressed his joy at beating Napoli in the Champions League round of 16 to advance to the quarter-finals, calling it one of the best moments of his coaching career. The Spanish champions secured a 3-1 victory at the Olympic Stadium, clinching a 4-2 aggregate win against the reigning Serie A champions and progressing to the last eight for the first time since 2020.
Despite facing criticism and pressure, Xavi praised his team for their deserved qualification, stating that they outperformed Napoli in the crucial match. He described it as a significant achievement and one of his finest moments as Barcelona’s coach. Xavi also confirmed that he remains steadfast in his decision to leave the club at the end of the season, a choice he made back in January. Under his leadership, the team has shown resilience and determination, going unbeaten in nine consecutive matches.
The young centre-back, Pau Cubarsi, who is only 17 years old, received the player of the match award for his stellar performance against Napoli. Xavi commended Cubarsi for his intelligence, patience, humility, and eagerness to improve, highlighting him as a talented and promising defender for both Barcelona and Spanish football. Cubarsi himself expressed his delight at being recognized and credited the team for their collective effort and success.
Reflecting on the match, Cubarsi described it as one of the best days of his life and emphasized the importance of teamwork and unity within the group. He expressed his happiness and gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Barcelona’s victory and acknowledged the support and camaraderie among his teammates.
Overall, Barcelona’s triumph over Napoli was a memorable and significant moment for both Xavi as a coach and Cubarsi as a young player. The team’s success and camaraderie were evident in their performance on the field, showcasing their talent, determination, and ability to overcome challenges. As they advance to the next stage of the Champions League, Barcelona will continue to strive for excellence and work together towards achieving their goals.
