Despite a 3-2 second-leg semi-final defeat to Bayern Munich on Tuesday, FC Barcelona has made it to the finals of UEFA Champions League, thanks to a brace from Neymar. The Blaugrana defenders made many errors in the game but coach Luis Enrique a forgavea them as the ultimate objective was met.
Thanks to their first leg 3-0 victory over Bayern Munich at Camp Nou, FC Barcelona were in the driving seat of this match. And, despite a spirited comeback, FC Hollywood failed to complete a memorable fightback in the return leg at their home ground.
Unmarked Mehdi Benatia put Bayern Munich ahead in the 7th minute by scoring through a header. Bayern Munich players were coming forward in numbers to pile a pressure on FC Barcelona but, their tactics backfired soon afterwards as an excellent counter attacking display from Blaugrana helped Neymar score two goals to kill the tie in the first half itself.
Luis Suarez provided an assist for both the goals of Neymar, who now has 37 strikes to his name this season. Going into the half time, Bayern Munich were behind by 1-5 on aggregate and they needed a miracle to proceed to the finals. They started second half on a brighter note as they dominated the possession to create more chances.
Two well taken goals from Robert Lewandowski and Thomas Muller, in the 59th and 74th minute respectively, gave Bayern Munich a victory on the night, but it proved too little and too late.
On the other hand, FC Barcelona defenders, who had not conceded a goal in last 7 games, made some silly errors but coach Luis Enrique was quick to forgive them in his press conference.
“The match in the first half was under control. In the second, we made several errors but they were down to the scoreline and fatigue,” Luis Enrique told reporters.
“It is a night to be happy.
“The target is completed and now the goal is to win the Champions League title.”
Luis Enrique also admitted that FC Barcelona were made to struggle in the second half by Bayern Munich.
“We forced the opponent to attack us, so we took some risks.
“Bayern Munich were very physical, especially in the second half, they really wanted to turn it around.
“I am very satisfied with the performance of my players, the whole team deserved the victory and we have to enjoy this.”
