Sergio Roberto knows a thing or two about unbelievable comebacks after scoring that winner for Barcelona against PSG in the Champions League back in 2017.
The Catalans are in need of some similar magic this week as they face Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Barca head into the second leg already 4-0 down in the tie, and Robert says the team must believe they can complete a stunning comeback.
“It all starts with believing in a comeback. From what I’m reading, the players and coaches
have this mentality. Honestly, I think it’s possible. The opponent is very strong, but when I scored my last goal, we were facing one of the best teams in the world, PSG,” he told Sport.
“We have to believe, especially going back to the Camp Nou. Perhaps the atmosphere won’t be the same, unfortunately it won’t be at its full capacity, but it’s possible, and the fans will be behind them. The fans will be fully behind them. We have to believe, and I’m confident the team can turn things around.
“For us, scoring an early goal was key. If you start with intensity and attack from the first minute, the fans and the players gain confidence. But we can’t get carried away. Atlético is very dangerous on the counter-attack, with top-level players up front who exploit space very well. The start of the match is crucial; we need to score as quickly as possible.”
Roberto, who left Barcelona for Italian side Como, also said he still watches every single Barcelona game and has loved watching the team under Hansi Flick.
“I don’t miss a single match. I think they’re doing really well. Last season was incredible because of the titles they won and the way they played and competed,” he added.
“They’re fighting for every trophy, they’re still in all three competitions. The first leg of the Cup didn’t go as they hoped, but we have to have faith in this team, they played some fantastic matches. I’m so glad they’re doing so well.”
Barcelona and Atletico meet on Tuesday in the Copa del Rey, with the winners set to face either Athletic Club or Real Sociedad in the final.
