Barcelona ‘lacked maturity’ in Napoli draw, says Xavi
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said the squad ‘lacked maturity’ following their 1-1 draw by Napoli in the Champions League Round of 16.
SIGN UP ON M88 MANSION TO JOIN THE LA LIGA FUN AND ACTION WITH A SINGLE CLICK
‘Bittersweet’
Robert Lewandowski put Barca on the pedestal with a golazo in the 60th minute.
However, Victor Osimhen fired an equalizer for the Serie A champion in the 75th minute, as both teams ended the game all square.
Xavi felt “bittersweet” after the game since he thought that Barcelona had Napoli at the palm of their hands.
“We played well, we defended well,” said Xavi in his post-game press conference.
“Napoli didn’t create much, but in the moment [after taking the lead] we lacked control when we needed to dominate, show personality and be aggressive.”
“It’s a shame. It was a good performance in general and I am proud of the image we have shown Europe.”
“This is the Barça we want, but we lacked maturity to [manage the game],” Xavi added.
Lewandowski on fire
One player whose maturity is at its peak for Xavi’s side is Lewandowski.
The Polish striker has scored five goals in the last four games in all competitions.
Barcelona would have dropped the game if it wasn’t for Lewandowski’s brilliance in the second half.
“Lewandowski is playing for the team now,” Xavi said. “He has taken a step forward. He’s winning his individual battles, he’s together with the team and pressing high.
“He’s a natural leader, and he wants to improve. He’s helping a lot at the moment, and it’s more about that, the goals are a consequence of his good play.”
Both Barcelona and Napoli will head to the second leg with a deadlock.
