Xavi raises Bilbao as challenge for Barcelona. Xavi Hernandez praises Athletic Bilbao as a tough opponent for Barcelona ahead of their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash on Wednesday.
Barcelona boss, said that facing Athletic Bilbao on the Copa del Rey round 8 stage this Wednesday will be a challenge for the Azulgrana team. Playing against one of the teams that are performing best on the Liga stage right now.
‘We are playing for the championship, facing opponents that maybe we don’t want fierce rivalry Along with coaches who give high importance One of the best teams in the division,’ Xavi said. ‘A brave team that presses you hard. Very complicated situation But we’re prepared. Great game’
If tomorrow’s game clicks like Barcelona are looking for this season, The 43-year-old trainer said: ‘Clicks are tomorrow’s wins. Win in the semi-finals and win the championship, but yes, above all play a good game. I think we played very well against Betis, tomorrow will be different. We may not get many balls. But it’s time to compete and fight for the championship.’
Asked if this game was an important one, Xavi replied: ‘Yes, it was a turning point. It was a knockout match. Of course we are playing for the championship.’
Xavi also spoke about Athletic Bilbao, adding: ‘We admire Valverde, they press very well. We will have less time to think. There is a very high line. We have to know how to get out of that pressure. It’s going to be difficult, it’s going to be a football war. โปรโมชั่น ufabet
The Barca trainer also talked about Nico Williams, the Spanish national team attacker of the rival team. ‘I think he’s a great, quick, goal-oriented player. He is in a great moment. We must be very careful with him. He will make it difficult both in the short term and in the long term. He’s a great player.’