Xavi Unfazed By The 1-0 Win Against Real Madrid

There is being confident, and then there is being deluded, Barcelona manager, Xavi Hernandez wouldn’t want to fall a victim of the latter with the 1-0 win against El Clasico rivals, Real Madrid.

Barcelona manager, Xavi Hernandez, has criticized his team’s performance in their Copa del Rey semi-final first-leg match against arch-rivals Real Madrid. Despite securing a 1-0 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu, Xavi lamented his team’s inability to maintain possession of the ball.

In his post-match press conference, Xavi stated, “We have not been able to keep the ball. It has been difficult for us to win duels to have possession, but we have defended very well. We have fought until the end and that is very positive.”

Despite the win, Xavi believes that Real Madrid is still the favorite to progress to the final. He said, “The 0-1 gives us a certain advantage, but we are going to have to compete very well against a very strong Real Madrid side. I still see Madrid as a favourite.”

Barcelona secured their narrow victory thanks to a first-half own goal by Real Madrid defender Eder Militao. The second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final is scheduled to take place in the first week of April at the Camp Nou.

The first leg was a closely contested encounter between two of Spain’s most successful and storied clubs. Real Madrid had several chances to score, with Vinicius Junior and Marco Asensio coming close to finding the back of the net.

Barcelona also had opportunities to extend their lead, but they were unable to capitalize on their chances. The Catalan side will need to improve their performance in the second leg if they hope to advance to the final.

Xavi’s comments suggest that he is aware of the task ahead of his team. Real Madrid has been in good form this season, and they have the advantage of playing the second leg at home. If they can secure a victory at the Camp Nou, they will be well placed to reach the Copa del Rey final.