Newcastle United stars admit Barcelona were too good to handle: ‘If you disrespect them…’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s 7-2 victory over Newcastle United was a performance that left their opponents searching for answers.

The Catalans booked their place in the Champions League quarterfinals, but that certainly did not come without a fair share of hardships. 

In the first half, Newcastle looked competitive, even taking advantage of Barça’s defensive uncertainty to score twice and head into the break trailing narrowly at 3-2.

But whatever issues existed before halftime disappeared completely after the restart and what followed was a one-sided second half where Barcelona imposed themselves with complete authority.

Newcastle simply could not cope.

Reaction from Joelinton and Elanga

That feeling was best captured by midfielder Joelinton, who openly admitted how difficult it was to deal with Barcelona’s movement and passing rhythm. 

Trying to press became an impossible task as the game wore on. Describing the experience, he said, 

“You try to pressure one player, but the other already has the ball. You keep pressing, and then it all starts over again. 

“After a while, you’re just running… you don’t even know who you’re chasing anymore,” he said.

Joelinton admitted defeat to Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Anthony Elanga, who was Newcastle’s standout performer with both goals, shared similar sentiments after the game. 

Despite his individual contribution, he acknowledged that the team simply could not match Barcelona once the game opened up.

“In the second half, we gave them a lot of space, and a team like Barça took advantage of that to punish us. 

“If you disrespect them and make mistakes, they punish you,” he noted.

Even on a personal level, the winger made it clear that his goals meant little without the right result.

“I’m happy about the goals, but my ambition is greater—it’s to turn those goals into victories.”

Elanga also reserved praise for Lamine Yamal, who once again played a decisive role for Barcelona. 

Acknowledging his impact, Elanga said, “He’s an incredible player, really good,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo