Xavi celebrates Barcelona’s 2-1 win vs Real Madrid: “Last year we were 12 points behind”

Barcelona found their 100th El Clasico win in history tonight as a sold-out Camp Nou witnessed Franck Kessie score a 92nd-minute winner.

The game seemed lost for most of the second half, with Marco Asensio even getting on the scoresheet. A moment of brilliance from Robert Lewandowski and Alejandro Balde, though, rescued the game.

Following this incredible win, Xavi spoke to the media as part of his post-game press conference.

First of all, he explained his decision to sub off Raphinha, who was arguably the best player on the pitch tonight. “Rapha was tired and had a yellow card,” the gaffer said.

Speaking more broadly about El Claisco, then, Xavi continued, “As a manager, I am more nervous for El Clasico than I was as a player.”

“Madrid knew how to play out of our press. The offside goal they scored came from our mistake, but I think that we were superior in general.”

Sergi Roberto’s inclusion in the starting lineup came as a surprise to many, but the player justified his selection with the equaliser in the first-half. His replacement, Franck Kessie, then got the winner.

Roberto vs Kessie

“I had doubts about starting Sergi Roberto or Franck until the very last minute. In the end, I guess it went well because both scored,” Xavi said about the pair.

“I don’t know what to say about Sergi Roberto. If he were in another team he would be one of the most valued and here he’s criticized. He played an extraordinary game in every aspect.”

“Today is one of the best days as Barça coach. I had goosebumps, especially when Kessié scored. I’m very happy for the players.”“If Asensio’s goal had counted, that result would not have been fair. After Kessie scored, I felt that the win was fair and deserved.”

Barcelona are now 12 points clear on top of the table, but Xavi is clearly holding his horses until they are officially crowned.

“We don’t feel like champions, but this is a very important step for us. The script has been perfect.”

“In this team, everyone runs, everyone works… It’s something to be proud of. We have won many points, which means the team is working well,” he continued praising the team.

Barcelona were much better tonight compared to when they came off a 0-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu earlier this month. Xavi explained the tactical process, saying:

“They key in this match was to keep possession. We had a mature and responsible game. We avoided losing the ball in situations where Madrid could take advantage of us.”

Controversial offside? Not really

Carlo Ancelotti called Asensio’s offside goal a controversial decision, but Xavi clearly refused to believe the same.

“Clear offside. I’m surprised Ancelotti said what he did, because there’s no debate”

“If Asensio’s goal had counted, that result would not have been fair. After Kessie scored, I felt that the win was fair and deserved,” he added.

Xavi ended on a high, and sharp note as well. “We were better than Real Madrid. The result is fair. The only thing that was unfair was their 0-1 lead.”

“Don’t forget where we come from. Last year, it was us who were 12 points behind.”

Source: BarçaTV+