Barcelona winger optimistic about season despite Copa del Rey exit – ‘If we keep playing like this…’

Last night, Barcelona came within one goal of completing the comeback against Atletico Madrid, just a single strike away from levelling the Copa del Rey semifinal tie and forcing extra time. But it was not to be.

Chasing a four-goal deficit from the first leg, the Blaugrana put on a brilliant display at the Spotify Camp Nou, winning 3-0, but ultimately getting eliminated from the cup competition on aggregate score.

Raphinha hopeful for the rest of the season

Despite the exit from the Copa del Rey, Barcelona walked off the pitch at the Spotify Camp Nou with loud applause from the fans, who sang the club anthem at the top of their voice, showing their support for the players.

And, speaking to the media after the game, Barça winger and captain Raphinha thanked the fans for their support and expressed optimism for what lies ahead for the team.

“I’m very proud of this team,” said Raphinha, who scored the second goal on the night against Atletico Madrid.

“If we keep playing like this, we’ll have a spectacular end to the season,” he promised.

Barcelona tried hard and came close. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Raphinha was especially grateful for the support of the fans in a game which marked the return of the Grada d’Animació in the renovated Camp Nou.

“The truth is, I think it’s us who should be thanking the fans; they were spectacular. When we play at home, we need to feel the fans’ support. It’s important for us. I think the fans are proud,” the Brazilian international stressed.

Talking about the game and the result, Raphinha stated: “We gave it our all. Atletico played very well. We did everything we could, we just fell a little short. We’re disappointed not to reach the final, but we have more positives than negatives to take away.

“The intensity we showed, the desire to come back… Atletico sealed the deal in the first leg, we have to acknowledge their merit.”

Concluding, the Barcelona winger noted: “It’s time to keep our heads up. Tomorrow is another day. We have to leave here proud of what we’ve done.

“Now it’s time to think about the weekend. On to La Liga and the Champions League, that’s what we have to focus on.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo