FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has admitted his side did not perform well despite securing a crucial 1-1 draw against Newcastle United in their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash.
Barcelona salvaged the draw in dramatic fashion at St. James’ Park after teenage forward Lamine Yamal converted a stoppage-time penalty to cancel out Newcastle’s late opener.
The home side had looked set to secure a famous victory after winger Harvey Barnes found the net late in the match, sending the crowd into celebration. However, Barcelona were awarded a penalty in added time after a foul inside the box, allowing Yamal to equalise with the final kick of the game.
Speaking after the game, Flick acknowledged that his team struggled in possession but praised their defensive organisation and the importance of the result.
According to the Barcelona manager, the outcome was valuable even though the performance left room for improvement.
“A very important result because we did not play so well with the ball. We defended well together, we can improve a lot and we will do it.”
Flick also suggested that Newcastle’s performance could have earned them victory on another day, highlighting the intensity and pressure his players faced throughout the match.
Despite the underwhelming display, the draw gives Barcelona a slight advantage heading into the second leg, where they will hope to produce a stronger performance and secure qualification for the next round.
