Despite a 1-0 win away at El Clasico rivals Real Madrid in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, Xavi was not entirely satisfied with Barcelona’s performance and believes their opponents are still favorites for the tie.
Barcelona won thanks to an own goal by Eder Militao in the first half at the Santiago Bernabeu, while Madrid had plenty of possession and 13 shots but failed to hit the target.
Barcelona’s coach was pleased with the victory, but appeared eager to put the pressure back on Los Blancos ahead of the return leg on April 5, insisting that Real Madrid was still the favorite to reach the final.
“We have a certain advantage,” he told reporters. “We will have to compete very well [in the second leg at Camp Nou]. We have defended well. The return home, with our fans, is positive. But I still see Real Madrid as favourites.”
Xavi was pleased with his team’s defense but concerned about their failure to keep the ball, as the visitors had only 35.3 percent possession and completed only 309 of their 380 passes (81.3 percent).
“I’m not satisfied… It’s not the percentage we’re looking for,” he said.
“The result is very positive. I’m happy with the work, solid defence, we minimised Real Madrid on their field. The game was difficult.
“The victory is tremendous [but] we didn’t know how to keep the ball, it was difficult for us to win duels. We defended well without the ball and fought well without the ball.
“The people are supportive. I am satisfied, but we have to improve in our game with the ball. We cannot give the opponent dominance.
“I am satisfied with the result but not so much for the match.”
