Xavi says his Barcelona side were defensively “spectacular” during their 1-0 win over Real Madrid in their Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.
Barcelona were on the back foot for much of the game at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday, recording just 35 per cent of possession.
But Xavi’s side took the lead against the run of play midway through the first half, after Eder Militao diverted Thibaut Courtois’ save from Franck Kessie’s shot into his own net.
Advertisement
Real dominated the ball for the entire second half but could not find a way through, meaning Carlo Ancelotti’s side will need a result in the second leg at Camp Nou on April 5.
“I’m satisfied with the result because we were able to suffer, but I can’t be happy with the game,” Xavi said.
“The 0-1 score gives us a certain advantage, but we will have to compete very well against a Madrid team that I see as very strong. I still see Madrid as the favourites.”
“Defensively we have been spectacular, today we could not be protagonists but today it was not our turn, they did not have chances, we did a great job defensively.
“We have not been good with the ball, today we have not chosen well, Real pressed us all game and led us to this match.
“We have not betrayed any style, the opponent forced us to defend and we also have to know how to do that.”
Barcelona return to La Liga action on Sunday when they host Valencia.
GO DEEPER
Real Madrid 0-1 Barcelona: Xavi's side edge tight Copa Clasico (part one)
(Photo: Getty Images)
