Barcelona trio blown away by yet another Joan Garcia masterclass: ‘Good to have a player like him’ | OneFootball

Barcelona took another important step in the Copa del Rey by securing a 2-0 victory away to Racing Santander, and it was a night that tested both patience and character. 

Playing at the Campos de Sport de El Sardinero, the Catalans faced a well-organised opponent who made life difficult from the first minute.

Wearing the captain’s armband, Ferran Torres stepped up at a crucial moment, opening the scoring and setting the tone for a professional Barcelona performance. 

After the final whistle, Ferran reflected on the unexpected approach taken by the home side and admitted it forced Barcelona to adapt during the game.

Ferran’s analysis

Speaking to Movistar (h/t Mundo Deportivo), the forward explained how Racing’s defensive setup caught Barça off guard and why the match demanded extra effort.

“We were surprised that Racing played so defensively. We thought they would play more openly, but we had to work hard and stretch the field,” he began saying.

“My goal is to help the team and the coach. I scored a goal, and I hope there will be more to come.”

Ferran also highlighted a key moment late in the match, when the game threatened to swing back into Racing’s favour. 

With Barcelona holding a narrow lead and spaces opening up, one decisive intervention kept the tie under control. 

Marc Casado has nothing but praise for Joan Garcia. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“The game was much more open at the end. Luckily, we have Joan Garcia,” who made that save.

Comments from Casado and Cubarsi

That appreciation for Joan Garcia was echoed by other Barcelona players after the match. 

Midfielder Marc Casado went even further, underlining the goalkeeper’s importance not just in this tie, but across the season.

Casado emphasised how vital Garcia has been in decisive moments, both domestically and in cup competitions.

“Joan Garcia is incredible. He gives us points in La Liga, and today he almost gave us the tie. He’s the best in the world.”

Defender Pau Cubarsi also shared his thoughts, particularly after a personal mistake that nearly led to a Racing goal. 

The young centre-back admitted his relief and pointed straight to the man who rescued the situation.

“It’s good to have a goalkeeper like Joan who saves you,” he noted.