Benfica to give Barca an early test of belief under coach Xavi

23 November,2021 09:49 AM IST |  Barcelona  |  AFP

They had needed the help of a dubious Memphis Depay penalty and the post, which Espanyol hit twice late in the second half at Camp Nou

Xavi Hernandez


Xavi Hernandez's rescue mission encounters its first major test on Tuesday as Barcelona face Benfica in a game that could decide the scrap in Group E to qualify for the Champions League last 16.

"We cannot ignore our principles," said Xavi on Saturday, after Barca had just beaten Espanyol 1-0 in his first game in charge to move up to sixth in La Liga. They had needed the help of a dubious Memphis Depay penalty and the post, which Espanyol hit twice late in the second half at Camp Nou.

But before a frantic final 20 minutes, Barcelona looked like a team at least intent on renewal, diligently obeying the wishes of their new coach, despite Xavi's tenure being only two weeks - and in terms of training sessions, a few days old.

Live on TV

>>Man Utd v Villarreal: Sony Ten 2 & 2 HD, 23:15
>>Bayern v Dynamo Kiev: Sony Six & HD, 23.15
>>Chelsea v Juventus: Sony Ten 2 & 2 HD, 01:30 (Wed)
>>Barcelona v Benfica: Sony Ten 1 & 1 HD, 01:30 (Wed)

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
fc barcelona champions league la liga sports news football
Related Stories