Raphinha optimistic Barcelona can turn the tables

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Barcelona forward Raphinha remains optimistic that his team can turn the tables in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final.

Barcelona were thrashed 4-0 by Atletico Madrid in the first leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.

“If there is one team that can make a comeback, it is us,” said Raphinha, as quoted on the Barca website on Thursday.

“We know the next match will be difficult, but I believe we are ready to face what awaits us.”

After being defeated by Atletico in the Copa del Rey, Barcelona lost 2-1 to Girona. However, they bounced back with a 3-0 win over Levante last weekend.

Before playing the second leg, Barcelona will host Villarreal at Camp Nou on Saturday (February 28).

The match against Atletico will also be coach Hansi Flick’s 100th match with Barcelona, with a record of 74 wins, 9 draws, and 16 losses.

If they win, he will become the second coach with the most wins in his first 100 matches with Barcelona, after Luis Enrique, who recorded 80 wins.

Raphinha believes that the team’s solidarity since Flick’s arrival is one of the reasons to remain confident in facing the big challenge.

“Our dressing room is amazing. From what I see, the players get along with each other. I feel like we are a family here,” said Raphinha.

“I really see a genuine friendly atmosphere, and I’m sure most of our success comes from that.”