Barcelona defender Gerard Pique refrained from considering the UEFA Champions League tie with Manchester United to be done after a 1-0 victory “after what happened” between United and Paris Saint-Germain.
In postgame comments to Spanish television network Movistar, Pique said PSG entered the return leg “with an even better result, as heavy favorites and look what happened.”
“In soccer, anything can happen, especially with great teams and clubs like United that can come back at any moment,” said Pique.
“We have to go out with a lot of focus and our ambition with certainly help us advance.”
When asked about Barcelona’s first victory at Old Trafford in five games in the European competition, Pique remembered that playing there is “very difficult” because it is a “majestic stadium” with “a lot of history” that gives “a sensational soccer environment” in which “people put a lot of pressure.”
“It is very difficult to win here,” said Pique.
Pique admitted that the first half featured a period of time in which United pressured Barcelona.
“Anyway, we held up very firmly in the back, looking for counterattacks. But in general terms, it was a very even game,” said Pique.
“We took advantage of the chance we had and we had another one in the first half as well.”
Barcelona’s center back also said the game featured “few chances” and that, in these types of games, details are very important and they allowed the Spanish side to prevail.
“Scoring a goal quickly and away from home in the Champions (League) gives you relief,” said Pique.
“We then knew how to play. If they score a goal, they’ll pressure a lot and not allowing a goal helped us a lot.”
The defender admitted that playing at Old Trafford was special for him after his stint with United.
“It was a good game,” said Pique.
“I think, in general, we are in the best moment of our season defensively. Personally, I feel very comfortable, very well.”
