As the general stage of the UEFA Champions League draws to a close, Barcelona head coach Hans-Dieter Flick commented on the team's current situation and the upcoming final round. The German specialist first emphasized one thing: the Catalans qualified for the playoffs, and this is important news for the team.
"We have advanced to the next stage, this is good news. But the last game will be as difficult as today. Everyone can see how difficult it is to win the Champions League, because everyone wants to advance to the next stage," said Flick.
The playoffs are over, but the goal is not complete
Barcelona officially secured the playoff spot by defeating Czech side Slavia 4-2 overnight. However, the intrigue for the Blaugrana isn't over yet: the team still has a chance to qualify directly for the Round of 16. Therefore, the next meeting is not a "formal" debate - it can determine the rating and roadmap.
Copenhagen hasn't lost hope either
Flick emphasized that their opponent, Copenhagen, has not yet been eliminated from the playoffs. This means the Danes are "playing for their lives" against Barcelona - which means intense pressure, great discipline, and maximum concentration at every minute.
Copenhagen also retains a chance to qualify for the playoffs. Therefore, to achieve a result, we need to play our best," the coach said.
When and where?
In the final round, Barcelona will host Denmark's Copenhagen. The Barcelona vs. Copenhagen match will take place on the night of January 28th to 29th.
Conclusion
Barcelona has already made it to the playoffs, but the most pleasant scenario - entering the top eight and going straight to the Round of 16 - is still realistic. Therefore, as Flick said, there is no "ordinary" mode in this game: the match against "Copenhagen" is not a preparation for the playoffs, but a decisive step that decides what mood and position to enter the playoffs in.
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