Barcelona center-back Pau Cubarsi praised his team’s defensive effort after Tuesday’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle United in the Champions League.
The Catalans were put under real pressure at St James’ Park but escaped with a draw when Lamine Yamal slotted home a late penalty.
Cubarsi says the backline – which was much changed due to injuries to Eric Garcia, Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde – put in a good shift against the Magpies.
“We played a great game defensively. We had a lapse in concentration
for the goal, but then Dani came on and did what he had to do. We got a draw, which is a good result,” he said.
“We knew coming here would be tough. They’re always pushing hard and you have to be on your toes. Maybe we haven’t been at our best up front.
“We’ve had some very demanding weeks. Today was also extremely demanding. Perhaps we arrived a little tired. We had to see when to press and when not to. They’re a very physical team and we had to choose the right moments.”
The two teams play the second leg of their tie next Wednesday at Camp Nou. The winners go on to play either Atletico or Tottenham in the quarter-finals.
