Barcelona goalscorers react after historic comeback win vs Benfica – ‘Will have to learn to play better defensively’

Barcelona made a spectacular comeback defeated SL Benfica 4-5 at the Estadio Da Luz, having been 3-1 down at half-time.

A Robert Lewandowski strike from the penalty spot, combined with another double from Raphinha and an Eric Garcia header, swung it in favor of Hansi Flick’s side on the night in Lisbon.

It was far from a convincing performance from Barcelona, ​​which was very troublesome by Benfica, but it character and mentality that they showed at night was eye-catching.

Lewandowski calls for improvement

Speaking to the media after the match, Barcelona goalscorer Lewandowski highlighted the importance of winning the match but insisted that improvements are needed from the team.

“We won, and I think that’s the most important thing, but three of Benfica’s goals were gifts from us. It is better that we always score one more goal than the opponent, but we must learn to play better defensively. Offensively, we also lack some things,” he said.

“With the score 4-4, they had an opportunity to score a goal. At that time we lacked calmness and experience. Now we can enjoy the game and tomorrow we can look at what we can improve from today.” added the veteran.

On the incident leading up to the 4-5 result, in which the Portuguese club demanded a penalty, Lewandowski said: “I was sure there were no penalties in the last game.”

The Poland captain also emphasized the relief of not having to play two more games now that Barcelona have secured direct qualification for the last 16, saying:

“We have to play until the end. This win can be very important for us in the future, but it is also an opportunity to analyze what we can do better in the future.

“It is important not to play ‘playoff’; two more games in February this season is crazy. We get two long weeks where we can train things that we normally don’t have time for.”

Eric Garcia opens up about his role

Eric Garcia replaced Jules Kound in the 74th minute and scored the equalizer to make it 4-4 in the 86th minute.

The Spanish defender highlighted the significance of such a victory, saying:

“Benfica are a very dangerous team, they gave us a lot of problems. It is an incredible victory, we are very happy. The team never lost focus on the game.”

He went on to add: “To start by conceding in the second minute… it changes plans. The team has shown an incredible mentality. Atlético lost here. They have already proven how good they are.”

Regarding his role in the team, which has been questioned in recent days, Eric Garcia expressed confidence in his future at Barcelona, ​​saying

“I believe that all players want to feel important. My job is to make the most of the minutes I have so that the manager changes his mind.”

Source: SPORT