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Below the stewardship of coach Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona wasted no time asserting their dominance, with targets from Fermin Lopez and Joao Cancelo propelling them forward early within the match.
Nevertheless, Napoli fought again valiantly, with Amir Rrahmani discovering the web to slender the deficit.
Regardless of Napoli’s resurgence, Barcelona held their nerve, and talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski sealed the victory with a medical end, making certain their passage to the quarter-finals.
Talking after the match, Xavi expressed his pleasure within the staff’s efficiency, highlighting their resilience and willpower. He emphasised the importance of reaching the quarter-finals for the primary time since 2020, particularly amidst a difficult season marred by accidents to key midfielders Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong.
Xavi credited the staff’s spectacular kind in current matches to the contributions of younger skills akin to Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, who excelled as soon as once more in opposition to Napoli. Cubarsi, specifically, drew reward for his stellar defensive show in opposition to Napoli’s formidable assault.
The match additionally noticed Barcelona make historical past by fielding two gamers aged 17 or underneath in a knockout stage recreation, showcasing the membership’s dedication to nurturing younger expertise.
With the help of over 50,000 spectators on the non permanent Olympic Stadium, Barcelona delivered a commanding efficiency, demonstrating their potential to compete on the highest degree of European soccer.
Regardless of going through some nervy moments within the second half, Barcelona’s attacking trio of Yamal, Raphinha, and Cancelo proved to be instrumental in securing the essential victory.
As Barcelona set their sights on the quarter-finals, Xavi hailed the importance of the win and expressed optimism concerning the staff’s prospects shifting ahead. With their dynamic attacking prowess and newfound confidence, Barcelona goals to make a robust impression within the latter levels of the Champions League, signaling their resurgence on the European stage.
(With inputs from AFP)
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