Xavi Appreciates The Effectiveness Of Barca's Attack During The Big Win Over Valencia
JAKARTA - Barcelona won 4-1 over Valencia on Sunday, February 20 night. Barca coach, Xavi Hernandez said he was pleased with the appearance and effectiveness of his team in attack.
"We were effective. We also showed that we can withstand the pressure of the opponent. We suffered in the second half, but we continued to attack, took few breaks but managed to be calm,'' Xavi was quoted as saying by Marca, Monday.
In the match at the Mestalla Stadium in the 25th week of the 2021/2022 Spanish League, Xavi assessed that Barcelona performed well in the first half even though the match was difficult. The struggle also continued in the second half, but he is relieved that his squad can go home feeling satisfied.
The 4-1 victory that Barcelona won in this match could not be separated from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's hat-trick in 23, 38 and 63 minutes. Frankie de Jong gave a complementary goal.
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"We came home with three incredible points which we got from a difficult place. The win was great. The goals are fantastic,''explained Xavi.
Even though he just won big, Xavi asked his team to stay calm. Because Barca will still face Napoli at the Maradona Stadium, followed by Athletic Bilbao at the weekend where the two games are believed by the coach to be difficult.
''We have to be more consistent and reliable because the other two games are no less difficult. We have to know how to defend with and without the ball, we lack that aspect," Xavi said.
In addition to praising his team, the coach also gave personal praise for the performance of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who scored with Barcelona. Xavi is not surprised by this because Aubameyang has always scored goals throughout his career.
The former Arsenal player is considered to be able to find space well, mature, intelligent, humble, and positive when playing.
''I am happy with him. Two goals will give confidence,''said Xavi.