CD Guadalajara’s Copa del Rey journey came to an end with a 0-2 defeat to FC Barcelona, but for Jorge Casado, the final whistle was met with pride rather than disappointment. The 36-year-old centre...
CD Guadalajara’s Copa del Rey journey came to an end with a 0-2 defeat to FC Barcelona, but for Jorge Casado, the final whistle was met with pride rather than disappointment.
The 36-year-old centre-back spoke candidly after the match, making it clear that his side walked off the pitch with their heads held high after competing bravely against one of the biggest clubs in world football.
Reflecting on the significance of the match and his team’s performance, Casado admitted,
“If I had to dream about something beforehand, it would have been tonight.
“We made Barcelona feel very uncomfortable throughout the match, and that says a lot about the team’s work,” he told MARCA.
Praise for Barcelona
One of the major talking points before kick-off was Barcelona’s strong starting XI, which included teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
For Casado, this decision spoke volumes about Barcelona’s respect for the opposition.
“If they came out with a great team, it’s because they didn’t want to take anything for granted.”
He then underlined Guadalajara’s mentality on the night, adding, “They’re impressive, of course they are, but there was no fear. We treated them as equals.”
Impressed with Pedri
Pedri had a strong impression on Jorge Casado. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Pedri’s introduction in the second half proved decisive and prompted one of the most striking quotes of the evening.
Despite openly admitting his own football loyalties, Casado could not hide his admiration, saying, “I’m a Real Madrid fan, but this kid is a genius.”
He went further in his praise, adding, “He has a gift, it’s wonderful to watch him and how lucky we are to be able to enjoy him in the Spanish national team.”
Beyond the football, Casado also highlighted the human moments that followed the match. Speaking about exchanging shirts, he revealed,
“I took Eric Garcia’s shirt, and I really liked the gesture.” He added warmly, “He could have kept it, but he asked for mine too, and that says a lot about him.”
On the balance of the game itself, Casado downplayed the gap between the two sides, insisting,
“They had a lot of possession, but I didn’t feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed at any point,” he concluded.
Category: General Sports
