Luis Enrique hailed the performances of Paco Alcacer and Neymar Jr. as Barcelona defeated Granada 4-1 to close the gap atop the La Liga table to a mere 2 points.
Barcelona traveled to face Granada in La Liga Santander on Sunday with Real Madrid five points clear atop the league table. The Catalans, though, performed admirably to cut Los Blancos lead to two points, with a 4-1 win over Granada, thanks to goals from Luis Suarez, Paco Alcacer, Ivan Rakitic and Neymar.
Luis Enrique was in an upbeat mood as he praised his side for their professionalism and clinical nature, especially after the international break.
Paco Alcacer is slowly coming into his own at Barcelona. The player replaced Rafinha early on into the game and it was his goal in the second half that reinstated Barcelona’s lead in the game. Alcacer, though, was modest in his approach as he said that every player coming off the bench is expected to do the same.
“I’m happy to be able to help the team in any way I can. Anyone who comes off the bench has to give one-hundred percent. I’ve worked hard to get my opportunity and take advantage of it.”
Tw Roberto: “We’re going to Barcelona with 3 points! Congratulations @neymarjr on your 100 goals and @Carlesale10 for your League debut!” pic.twitter.com/VOTYHCRS3c
— Barcastuff (@barcastuff_real) April 2, 2017
Neymar also landed a milestone in the victory, with the Brazilian scoring his 100th goal for Barcelona, a feat that even got his manager lauding the attacker.
Neymar said,“I’m very happy to score my 100th goal, but I’m even happier because we won.”
Enrique lauded the efforts of both Paco Alcacer and Neymar on the night while praising the entire team’s efforts.
“[My players] have been saddled with loads of travel and time changes, but they responded well. He [Paco Alcacer] was sublime tonight. He created continual danger. I’m happy for him. Those kinds of numbers are only within reach of a beast like him [Neymar].”
Carles Alena, who has been linked with a shock move to Real Madrid with his contract set to expire in the summer, made his league debut for Barcelona and he was equally joyous for his victorious debut. It will be interesting to see whether Alena decides to stay at the club or moves on.
Either way, the talented youngster is set for big things in the future, undoubtedly.
