Inigo Martinez and Alejandro Balde react after Barcelona 4-0 Borussia Dortmund – ‘We are superior’ | OneFootball

Barcelona returned to European action in stunning fashion, dismantling Borussia Dortmund 4-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal.

Despite the resounding win at home, veteran defender Inigo Martinez is choosing to remain cautious.

After recovering from a minor injury that ruled him out against Real Betis, the experienced centre-back slotted back into the starting eleven and played a solid role in the victory.

While the result places Barça in a commanding position ahead of the second leg, Martinez stressed that qualification for the semi-finals is not yet secured.

“We know it’s going to be tough, that they’ll push hard. They have nothing to lose, but it’s true that the advantage we have there is very big,” he began saying.

For him, the best approach is to stay focused, remain calm, and shift attention back to La Liga before thinking too far ahead.

“The truth is that a defeat and elimination there would be very hard for the team. Let’s hope it isn’t, but hey, we’re going there to win too.

“Without speculating, we know how to play very well. I think we’re superior and we’re doing well, so nothing, calm for now and focus on La Liga,” he said.

Importance of consistency

Inigo Martinez returned from injury. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

He also spoke about the importance of maintaining form throughout the season. According to him, once a team gets into a strong rhythm, it’s crucial to keep the same energy and focus.

In recent matches, even against teams considered less difficult, letting their guard down has proven costly in La Liga.

Now, with confidence building and the team showing hunger and ambition, Martinez hopes they can carry this positive momentum forward.

“In football, we know that there are dynamics and that when you get into one, getting out is very complicated.

“We had some games against fairly easy-going teams in La Liga, always with a lot of respect, and in the end, when you let your guard down in certain areas, you pay dearly for it, and we see it in La Liga.

“We have to continue in this dynamic, with this enthusiasm, this ambition and continue enjoying the football we see every time we play,” he added.

Balde reflects on a special night

Alejandro Balde was happy with the performance. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

Young full-back Alejandro Balde also shared his thoughts after the dominant display. He acknowledged that the team created several chances and could have scored even more.

“We had many chances. We could have scored more. But we know this is a good result, and now we need to focus on the next match,” he said.

Drawing comparisons to the golden era of Messi, Luis Suarez, and Neymar, Balde expressed his appreciation for today’s attackers – Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha – who are currently leading the line with great success.

“Yes, they’re doing a great job. We’re happy to have these players with us.”

Balde described the win as one of the most enjoyable nights of his Barcelona career so far. After enduring some difficult seasons, he felt proud to be part of the current squad and is motivated to keep working hard.

“Yes, when you play these kinds of games and win, you enjoy it. It’s a beautiful night to wear this shirt. I’m very happy with the work we’re doing. We’re having a great season, and we must continue like this,” he added.

Source: Mundo Deportivo