Barcelona Wins Champions League, Xavi Hernandez: PSG Remains Favorite

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez when giving instructions to Lamine Yamal in the match against Paris Saint-Germain. (X/@FCBarcelona)

JAKARTA - Barcelona won 3-2 over Paris Saint-Germain which opened up opportunities to qualify for the semifinals of the Champions League. However, coach Xavi Hernandez said PSG was still the favorite to qualify from Barca.

Barca impressed in the away match in the quarter-finals at the Parc des Princes Stadium, Paris, Thursday, April 11, 2024 in the morning WIB. The reason is, they are less favored against the unbeaten PSG in the last 27 matches.

Winning first through Raphinha's goal of taking advantage of the rebound after goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma failed to get rid of Barca's cross. But Luis Enrique's side were able to turn things around and lead 2-1.

Despite being left behind, Barca showed fighting spirit. They turned ahead. Starting with Raphinha who scored a brace after his volley which took advantage of Pedri's good pass broke into PSG's goal.

Furthermore, midfielder Andreas Christensen became the determinant of the Blaugrana victory.

This victory became Barca's valuable capital when they played their second quarter-final match at home at the Olimpic Lluis Companys Stadium, Barcelona, Wednesday, April 17, 2024 in the morning WIB. Barca only need a draw to win the last four tickets.

"We should be proud to say that Barca is still alive," said Xavi.

"Kam knows what to do when facing one of the best teams in the world. This victory only gives a small advantage even though it still gives joy to our fans and city," he said.

Earning a profit in the second match and a chance to qualify, but Xavi still outperforms PSG. According to him Barca actually lost the quality to PSG. They can win just because they have a solid defense.

This made it difficult for PSG players to score goals. Even captain Kylian Mbappe was frustrated because he could not break into the opponent's goal.

"I'm sure PSG is still a favorite," said Xavi.

"We can close the gap because our defense is very solid. However, I am proud of this big win. We are also still halfway through. The second match at Barcelona will be more difficult," he said.

Barca had won 2005 to 2015 by winning four Champions Leagues. But Barca then experienced a decline.

They also failed to penetrate the last 16 during the last three seasons. Barca last reached the quarter-finals in 2020. At that time, they were beaten by Bayern Munich with a total score of 8-2.