Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez believes that Barcelona’s remarkable comeback against Celta Vigo demonstrates the changing dynamics within society.
In an exhilarating match at the Olympic Stadium, Robert Lewandowski scored two goals in the final 10 minutes. João Cancelo then delivered the winning strike in the 89th minute, allowing Barça to triumph over Celta 3-2.
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The statistical prowess of ESPN Stats and Information reveals that Barcelona is the first LaLiga team in the past 14 seasons to secure a victory while trailing by multiple goals after the 80th minute. Previously, teams in this scenario had an abysmal record of 0-17-1,963.
“It was an extraordinary comeback,” Xavi shared in a press conference following Barcelona’s rise to the top of the league. The team remains undefeated in six LaLiga games this season. Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have yet to play their respective matches this weekend.
“We maintained our belief until the end. Our faith and courage were instrumental in this victory. When we don’t perform well, these qualities become essential.
“We continued to take calculated risks, changing our strategy to an all-out offensive approach. We left only two defenders at the back while everyone else played in attacking positions. It was a necessary gamble, and it paid off.
“This comeback exemplifies the generational shift we witness in society. The younger players on our team refuse to surrender, even when facing a 2-0 deficit at home. This generation fights until the very end.
“Gavi, Alejando Balde, Lamine Yamal…today marks a pivotal moment for our winning character. Our performance may not have showcased brilliant football, but it demonstrated epic character and unwavering faith.”
Celta initially took the lead with a goal from Jörgen Strand Larsen in the first half. Anastasios Douvikas extended Celta’s advantage further with a goal in the 80th minute, leaving the home fans shocked and anticipating an unexpected defeat.
But two late goals from Lewandowski, assisted by João Félix and Cancelo, paved the way for a dramatic winner from a brilliant cross by Gavi.
Xavi commended midfielder Gavi, who replaced the injured Frenkie de Jong in the first half, for his pivotal role in the comeback.
“If we had to attribute the comeback to someone, it would be Gavi,” the coach emphasized. “However, this triumph was a collective effort. Typically, it is challenging for Barça to mount a comeback after conceding a goal in the 80th minute.”
Celta could have secured a victory in the second half if not for the outstanding performance of Barça goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, who made several crucial saves.
“If the game had ended 4-2 in our favor, it would have been a fair result,” commented Celta coach Rafa Benitez during a press conference. “We leave with a sense of frustration because, as in other games this season, we failed to maintain focus in the final minutes and control the game.”
Xavi conceded that despite the euphoria of the win, Barcelona still has room for improvement.
“I agree with everything Benitez said,” affirmed Xavi. “We need to compete better and exhibit more purpose on the field. Our pressing after losing possession was inadequate. We could have easily lost this match, and we will learn from this experience.
“Although the victory tastes sweet, it does not surpass the satisfaction of our previous wins against Betis and Antwerp, where we played exceptionally well. Our focus should be on maintaining a high level of performance, with enhanced ball circulation. When our intensity drops, the team suffers greatly.”
The joy of Barça’s success was tempered by a setback suffered by Frenkie de Jong, who sustained an ankle sprain. Sources indicate that early estimates suggest he will be sidelined for over a month.
“We await further evaluation following Sunday’s tests,” expressed Xavi. “De Jong is a resilient player and doesn’t exit the field without reason. We hope his injury is not severe.”
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