Xavi: “It was a victory of faith”

It has not been easy

Not much less. The triumph has been important. It has cost us a lot. It was difficult for us to understand the superiority and the last pass. We were better in the second half because they were more tired. It is difficult for all of us

What changed in the second part?

Fresh people and faith. It was a matter of faith. It was a matter of calm and breathing and choosing the last pass. We could spend half an hour talking about tactics

How do you rate the game?

I am happy for the second half and for being able to overcome this phase of the competition.

What were you looking for with the changes?

We were looking for superiorities. We knew it was going to be a difficult match. In the end we were looking for more ball possession and protecting the wings. Playing with three behind was an unnecessary risk.

What lesson do you draw from this game?

We were better than the opposite, but it could happen to us a silly expulsion due to pride or an excess of relaxation to know ourselves better. We couldn’t lose this match. At first we trust each other, but then we fix it.

What did he say to them at halftime?

I told them we could talk about tactics for three hours, but it was a matter of faith and believing it. At that point we were out of the tie. There are phases in which we have played well, but it was the logical thing to do.

How do you rate Dembélé’s game?

We needed him and he has responded. Soccerically, nothing to say. He was able to score a great goal to archive the game. There is nothing new about the renovation.

Was it a day with little to gain?

Yes, many expected goals, but these games are difficult against such organized and physical opponents. You have to think about Granada.