Barcelona Win Over Shakhtar Donetsk, Xavi Hernandez Admits His Team Made Difficult

Barcelona made difficulties when dealing with Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League. (Photo: Twitter/@FCBarcelona)

JAKARTA - Barcelona coach, Xavi Hernandez said he was happy with the victory his team won when they hosted Shakhtar Donetsk home. However, Xavi did not deny that the visitors made it difficult for the Blaugrana movement.

Barcelona and Shakhtar met on the third matchday of Group H of the 2023/2024 Champions League. In the match at the LLuis Companys Olympic Stadium, Barcelona on Thursday, October 26 in the morning WIB, the hosts won 2-1.

The Blaugrana victory could not be separated from the goal contribution from Ferran Torres and young player Fermin Lopez. Meanwhile, Shakhtar's one goal was a donation from Heorhiy Sudakov.

"I think Shakhtar really made it difficult for us in this match. We made some mistakes but in general I am happy with the quality of our game," Xavi Purnalaga said as quoted by the official UEFA website.

On the other hand, Xavi also admitted that Barca's victory could not be separated from the role of 20-year-old player, Fermin Lopez. Xavi Lopez said he was energetic in midfield and had an important role in the process of creating Loz Azulgrana's two goals.

Overall, Lopez did record a successful five-shot, did a successful drift three times and sent a key pass three times. Two of Lopez's five shots were actually only thwarted by goalposts.

The performance received praise from Xavi. The coach also hopes that Lopez will continue to show consistent performances.

"I am happy with him (Fermin Lopez) and happy for him. He is a valuable figure for us," said Xavi.

Barcelona are now firmly perched at the top of Group H with nine points. Meanwhile Shakhtar is in third place with three points.