Barcelona completed what could be the greatest comeback in the history of European football over Paris Saint-Germain last night
The Catalans were going into the match with a 4-0 deficit and many had written them out of the UEFA Champions League already given the seemingly impossible task they had on their hands combined with their struggles this season.
However, Barcelona proved all the doubters wrong with a magnificent performance that saw them run out 6-1 victors on the night and progress 6-5 on aggregate.
Speaking after the match, Luis Enrique hailed both the faith that Barcelona’s players had in themselves as well as the fans’ support for his side, while also complimenting Barcelona’s defensive discipline in the match.
“The joy we gave to all Barça fans is dedicated to all those who had faith, who supported us each day, especially in the tough moments, after losing in Paris. The key was the faith in the team and the fans right until the 95th minute.”
“We started really well, constantly recovering the ball, but not many clear chances on goal. But defensively, despite all risks taken, we pulled off a near perfect game. It is a night which is difficult to sum up in words. It was like the script of a horror movie, with a spectacular start, and a spectacular Camp Nou. We ran an infinite number of risks in defence. It is a victory of faith.”
Despite Unai Emery’s proven tactical nous in the European competitions – having led Sevilla to three back-to-back UEFA Europa League trophies – his side simply could not cope with the brilliance of a Barcelona side who have looked galvanised after the news that Enrique will step down at the end of the season.
Neymar was particularly brilliant last night and so were several Barcelona players but this was definitely a victory that was built not just out of individual brilliance but team effort as a whole. It is also a result that none of the players – or their manager – will ever forget.
Luis Enrique will be hoping Barcelona can maintain this sort of work ethic and belief for the rest of the season. If they do, Barcelona could easily see off their manager with multiple trophies in what will be a perfect end to his Barcelona reign.
