FC Barcelona achieved a great victory over Napoli in the UEFA Champions League, which put them on the way to the quarter-finals of the tournament.
The Catalans won the second leg with a 3-1 scoreline and remained in charge of the game since Fermin Lopez scored the first goal of the night. The youngster had been a part of the lineup only because Xavi had lost both Pedri and Frenkie de Jong to injury, but Lopez did not make the Barcelona trainer miss any of these players.
His unrelenting pressing was key for Barcelona to remain in control of the match, and he thus made a significant contribution to the team’s cause on the night. As SPORT has reported, he also talked to the media after the match and highlighted how happy he was, especially for Xavi, who has not had an easy season so far.
After the full-time whistle, the youngster talked to the media and shared his happiness about the win: “It had been four years since the club was in the quarterfinals. I’m happy for the coach, he deserves it, and for the fans.”
The midfielder was well satisfied with his team’s performance in the early phases of the game: “We started the first half-hour well. Personally, the third time was the charm.”
Fermin also shared how the dressing room feels playing under Xavi: “We have always believed in the coach. We feel more liberated because he gives us tranquility.” The youngster also remembered the contributions of the fans to this win: “We have felt the strength of the fans.”
Lopez is not an automatic starter for Xavi, but fully understood his role in this match: “This match was especially important and us young players tried to help.”
More difficult matches might be awaiting Barcelona as the Catalans advance further into the tournament, but Lopez was not too concerned about his future opponents at the moment: “We are not thinking about the possible opponent, just about celebrating the victory.”
Getting past Napoli is a significant achievement for the team, but this night will be the most memorable for youngsters like Yamal, Cubarsi, and Lopez, who all had an important part to play in this match. Hopefully, these players will continue to make such contributions in the future, and celebrate many more such nights.
