Yahoo Sports Barcelona goalscorers react after historic comeback win vs Benfica – ‘Need to learn to play better defensively’
Barcelona pulled off a spectacular comeback as they defeated SL Benfica 4-5 at Estadio Da Luz, after having been down 3-1 at half-time.
A brace from Robert Lewandowski from the penalty spot, coupled with another double from Raphinha and an Eric Garcia header clinched it in favour of Hansi Flick’s side on the night in Lisbon.
It was far from a convincing performance from Barcelona, who were troubled plenty by Benfica, but the character and mentality that they showed on the night was standout.
Lewandowski calls for improvement
Speaking to the media after the match, Barcelona goalscorer Lewandowski highlighted the importance of winning the game but insisted that improvements are needed from the team.
“We have won, and I think that is the most important thing, but three of Benfica’s goals were gifts from us. It is better that we always score one more goal than the opponent, but we need to learn to play better defensively. Offensively, we also lack some things,” he said.
“With the score at 4-4, they had a goal-scoring opportunity. At that point, we lacked calmness and experience. Now we can enjoy the match, and tomorrow we can look at what we can improve on from today,” the veteran added.
On the incident leading up to the 4-5 scoreline, in which the Portuguese club demanded a penalty, Lewandowski said: “I was sure there was no penalty in the last play.”
The Poland captain also emphasised the relief of not having to play two additional matches, now that Barcelona have secured direct qualification to the Round of 16, saying:
“We must play until the end. This victory can be very important for us in the future, but it is also an opportunity to analyse what we can do better moving forward.
“It is important not to play the ‘playoff’; two more matches in February this season is crazy. We will have two long weeks in which we can train things that we usually do not have time for.”
Eric Garcia opens up on his role
Eric Garcia replaced Jules Kound in the 74th minute, and scored the equalising goal to make it 4-4 in the 86th minute.
The Spanish defender highlighted the significance of such a victory, saying:
“Benfica are a very dangerous team, they caused us a lot of problems. It is an incredible victory, we are very happy. The team never lost focus on the match.”
Continuing, he added: “Starting off by conceding in the second minute… that changes the plans. The team has shown an incredible mentality. Atlético lost here. They have already proven how good they are.”
Regarding his role in the team, which has been questioned in recent days, Eric Garcia expressed confidence in his future at Barcelona, saying
“I believe that all players want to feel important. My job is to make the most of the minutes I have so that the manager changes his opinion.”
Source: SPORT
