Cubarsi, Roony react after Barcelona 5-0 Athletic Club – ‘Everyone wants a Clasico, but…’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s emphatic 5-0 win over Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final was not just about the scoreline, but also about the maturity and confidence shown by the younger players in Hansi Flick’s squad. 

One of the standout performers on the night was Pau Cubarsi, who delivered another composed display at the back and looked completely at ease on a big stage.

After helping Barça secure a place in the final, Cubarsi reflected on what made the difference against Athletic Club. 

“We were very effective up front, and I think that gave us a bigger lead going into the second half, allowing us to dictate the pace of the game as we wanted. 

“The forwards are really on form. All of our available players are performing at a spectacular level, and that helps the whole team. 

“We’re on a good run of clean sheets, which I think is important, with lots of wins, lots of hard work, and lots of positive things. We have to continue on this path.”

Gesture towards Unai Simon

Beyond the football itself, the match also had a strong human element. 

After the final whistle, several Spanish internationals from Barcelona went over to console Athletic Club goalkeeper Unai Simon, who had endured a difficult night. 

“We’re teammates on the national team, and we’re all very good friends, all the Spaniards.

“We went to see how he was doing, but he told us he was fine and that he was fully focused on the final.” 

Looking ahead to the decisive match, the young defender made it clear that Barcelona fear no one, adding that “everyone wants a Clasico, but whoever comes, we’re ready to fight and we’ll give it our all.”

Roony Bardghji’s comments

Roony Bardghji got a rare start against Athletic Club. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Another big positive for Barcelona was Roony Bardghji. Handed a start by Flick in place of Lamine Yamal, he repaid that trust in style. 

Delighted with his contribution, Bardghji said, “I’m very happy to be here in Saudi Arabia, to play an incredible game, where we dominated a lot, and to be able to help the team with goals and assists. 

“I’m very happy, but we also have a final and I’m really looking forward to it.” 

Bardghji also spoke about his goal, which came with his weaker right foot. The winger made it clear that it was no accident, explaining, 

“It doesn’t surprise me, I’ve been training a lot,” before adding, “people know I’m left-footed, but when I get the chance I try to go to the right and I know I can shoot with my right foot too.”

After limited minutes earlier in the season, Bardghji is determined to make the most of his opportunities. 

Reflecting on his adaptation to life at Barcelona, he concluded, “When you join a new club, you need to adapt. Some players have been here a long time, and you have to trust them and all that. 

“For me, it’s important to show what I can do every time I get the chance. I’m grateful for every minute. 

“Of course, I want to play more. Everyone wants to play, but I’m learning from everyone here. 

“I’m learning and improving a lot in every training session and every game. Hopefully, I can keep it up,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo