After the 1-0 win in the away leg of Barça’s last 16 tie against Benfica, Hansi Flick said he could not be more ‘proud’ of his team. In his post game media appearance the German reflected on the victory at the Portuguese champions, a hard fought one for several reasons: “In football a lot of things can happen and Benfica are a side who play good football and we have to be ready for the second leg.” 

Without doubt the red card for Pau Cubarsí was the source of many questions for the blaugrana coach. “It was not easy to play with 10 men and we did it really well. We defended fantastically well and I can only say well done. Everyone gave everything and we reacted well and stayed compact,” said Flick. 

The team defended well as a unit but the clean sheet was also partly down to a Wojciech Szczęsny who made several important saves. “We have a great keeper and he saved us and helped us to a clean sheet. I know how good he is as I see him in training every day,” commented the coach. 

Despite the win, Hansi Flick maintained his usual calm and caution. “The tie is not over. We are in a good position but a lot can happen in football. The second leg will be tough and we have to be ready,” concluded the Barça boss.