Player Reactions: SL Benfica 0-2 FC Barcelona
Speaking to the press after their 0-2 victory in Lisbon, Cesc, Alexis, Jordi Alba and Mascherano had a number of comments about their second win in Champions League Group G. A number of players also took to Twitter to make comments and offer support for Puyol. Find out what they had to say after the jump.
Cesc Fàbregas stated that the team is “playing better each time we play, they started off strong and we struggled a bit but in the second half we controlled the game and it was a completely different match.” On Carles Puyol’s injury, the midfielder said that “it’s “unfortunate. Your body just feels bad, he’s so fundamental to the team that it makes it more painful, but he’s one of the strongest guys I’ve ever known, I’m sure he’ll be back stronger than ever.”
The midfielder also talked about his newly found goalscoring form: “I’ve always been calm about it, sometimes it doesn’t go in, but now I’ve scored two goals with my left foot – I’ve never done that before.”
Alexis stated that he is“gaining confidence and I have to continue like this. We have another important game on Sunday and I want to continue like this.” He also had some words of praise for the opponents, saying that Barcelona “played against a good team, and we’ve never won here before. I’m pleased that I scored.”
Jordi Alba emphasized that “Puyol is a very important player for us. It’s a shame because he was coming off of another injury. Hopefully he can make a speedy recovery.” He also added that “we were the superior side, we played a fantastic match going forward and on defence. We scored two goals and we could have scored more, we beat a great team in a great stadium.” Asked about his current form, he stated: “I feel better every day, I’m sure I’ll improve. I’m pleased because I’m getting playing time.” Speaking about the upcoming game against Real Madrid, Alba underlined that “the Clásico is a very important match for the team, whoever plays will do a great job. I’m at the manager’s disposal.”
Mascherano analyzed the game, saying that Barcelona “played against an intense team, they pressured us quite a bit and they have quality players. We scored a goal in the first half and that calmed us down, we could have scored more and we finally did in the second half.” Referring to Puyol’s injury, Javier joined his team-mates in saying that it’s “really bad news, he’s the captain, a fantastic player and a man that brings a lot to the group and the team, now he’s picked up another injury but hopefully we can have him back with us soon.” Asked about the current situation in the team, he assured that “we’re coming into the Clásico on form.”
Comments via Twitter
Pique: “I love you a lot #ÀnimsCarles”
Isaac Cuenca: “All my support for @Carles5puyol. I’m so sorry. #animopuyol”
Pinto: “Get well soon @Carles5puyol after the storm always comes the calm. A big hug. #AnimoPuyol”
Thiago: “A lot of strengh Puyi! We’re with you in good and bad moments! You’ll be back soon. Ánimo Capi!!!”
Iniesta: “Very important three points, overshadowed by the injury of Puyi, a lot of strength capi!”
Mascherano: “Strength Puyi. We need you Capi!!!”
Andreu Fontàs: “You do not deserve this [injury], but you will be back as usual. You’re the best @ Carles5puyol! I’m with you friend! # ÀnimsPuyi”
Valdés: “Great victory over a great team like Benfica. What a great first half! I haven’t been tested that much in a while. The worst bit of news, Puyol’s injury. Ánimos captain!”
Alves: “Big win, very good job! But sad because of Puyiiiii, shame!”
Cesc: “We give you all our support @Carles5Puyol, you are one of the strongest person[s] I’ve ever met, you will come back soon my friend! #ÀnimsPuyi”




























