Pedri speaks out after Barcelona defeat Galatasaray in the UEFA Europa League | OneFootball

Barcelona came back from a goal down to defeat Galatasaray and qualify for the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals.

With the first leg at Camp Nou having ended in a goalless draw, Galatasaray drew first blood at their home stadium, when captain Marcao produced a diving header in the first half. However, the lead did not last long as Pedri equalised for Barça with a lovely finish.

Four minutes into the second half, the turnaround was complete as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang turned the ball home from close-range to make it 2-1.

The Blaugrana held on to their narrow lead and booked a place in the quarter-finals, keeping their chances of lifting a trophy this season alive.

Speaking after the game (h/t BarçaTV+), goalscorer Pedri spoke about the moment leading up to his strike, saying: “I don’t remember the play of the goal. I have to see it in the replay. On the pitch, things go by themselves.”

The Spanish international also touched upon the atmosphere at the stadium and the pressure that built, saying: “I have not been at a ground with so much pressure. It is crazy. We have shown character.”

On Barcelona’s chances of going all the way in the competition, the midfielder said: “I think we’re favorites to win the Europa League.”

Finally, when asked if his goal was similar to ones scored by club legend Lionel Messi, Pedri said: “Leo has scored much better goals. Comparing myself to him is crazy.”

Barcelona face arch-rivals Real Madrid up next in La Liga and speaking of the upcoming El Clasico, the young midfield prodigy added: “We will do everything to win against Real Madrid.”