Eric Garcia, Gerard Martin react after Leganes 0-1 Barcelona – ‘The manager warned us’ | OneFootball

Barcelona came away with a hard-earned 1-0 victory against Leganes in a match that could prove decisive in the La Liga title race.

Though the result may seem narrow, the importance of these kinds of games cannot be overstated. With only a single own goal separating the sides, the win still carries significant weight as the league heads into its final stretch.

Leganes had previously beaten Barcelona at Montjuic earlier in the season, so the players knew the dangers going into the match. This time, they were determined not to slip up.

Eric Garcia takes the floor

Eric Garcia, who delivered a strong performance in both midfield and defence, underlined the importance of staying focused during such demanding games.

Eric Garcia was happy with the performance. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

He admitted the team had some trouble dealing with Leganes’ counterattacks, especially in the first half, but remained confident about the overall result.

“The manager warned us about the results Leganés had against the top teams and today was no different.

“They played a very good game. They hurt us a lot on the counterattack in the first half and in the second, I think we lost the ball a few times, which made things difficult for us.

“But in the end, the important thing in this type of game is the three points,” he explained.

He also mentioned that the team is handling the physically demanding schedule well and praised the depth of the squad. Young players like Gerard Martin are seizing their opportunities, which bodes well for the remainder of the season.

“It’s non-stop. Let’s hope Balde’s situation isn’t too long, but hey, I think we’re all in the groove, and that was evident today with Gerard, who was very good.

“The manager gives us all opportunities, and we know how to take advantage of them. We’re doing very well in these moments where everything is a final.”

Gerard Martin’s turn

Gerard Martin was solid against Leganes. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Martin, speaking after the match, acknowledged the difficulty of breaking down Leganes’ defence early on but felt the team improved after the break.

“They were well-positioned, and we struggled a bit to get the ball moving at the start, trying to find the spaces. We improved a lot in the second half,” he said.

While he refused to get carried away with the result, he did admit that earning a slight edge in the title race helps boost team morale.

“We do feel more at ease having gained this momentary advantage and seeing that the end of LaLiga is approaching. We know we haven’t done anything yet. There’s still a long way to go and we’ll fight until the end.”

On Balde’s injury

The young defender also expressed hope that Balde’s injury would not keep him out for too long and reflected on his own development this season.

“We don’t know anything yet. I suppose they’ll run tests on him tomorrow, but we hope to have him back with us as soon as possible.”

He feels he has grown into his role and is proud of the progress he has made in his debut campaign with the senior squad.

“I think I’m quite satisfied. I’ve gone from less to more because at first the change is big and difficult, and I think I’ve adapted well and I’m in a good moment,” he noted.

Source: Mundo Deportivo