Barcelona winger blames ‘bad decisions’ for 2-1 defeat against AS Monaco | OneFootball

A 2-1 defeat to AS Monaco was not the result fans pictured for Barcelona’s first UEFA Champions League game of the season.

Given the team’s good run of momentum and form ahead of the clash, many expected them to weather the storm away from home. In fact, the Blaugrana were even well poised to do so until an unforeseen setback popped up.

An early red card for Eric Garcia reduced Hansi Flick’s side to ten men, handing the hosts numerical superiority and an edge in the game. Barcelona did well to hold on but ultimately succumbed to the pressure late in the game.

Raphinha decodes the defeat

Speaking to the media after the team’s defeat, Barcelona captain Raphinha gave his two cents on the performance, his strong start to the season and the UEFA Champions League.

Beginning his conversation, he admitted that playing a man down at such a high level was close to impossible, especially for 80 minutes.

“We gave everything we could. Playing 80 minutes with 10 men away from home is complicated.”

Raphinha blames ‘bad decisions’ for Monaco loss. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

The player was then asked if Barcelona suffered from a psychological block in the European competition, especially after last night’s individual blunder mimicked Ronald Araujo’s red card against PSG last season.

“No, I don’t think so. I think it’s just bad decisions, a split-second mistake that leads to a negative result and we pay a heavy price based on the quality of the opponent,” he said.

“But I don’t think we have a psychological problem. I think it’s just bad luck,” he added.

Specifically commenting on the PSG debacle, the Brazilian winger said,

“What happened today and what happened against Paris, especially this match, I think it’s just bad luck.”

Finally, Raphinha touched upon the topic of his own form this season and how he has enjoyed a strong start to the season, especially in La Liga.

“I don’t think many things have changed but I would be lying if I said I don’t feel more confident compared to last season.”

“The coach has given me a lot of confidence and freedom on the pitch and in the dressing room and that has given me the confidence to play my way without pressure. But the season is still early and I will continue to work,” he added on Hansi Flick’s role.

Finally, the former Premier League star emphasised that he was far from done and that he wished to grow into his role as the season progressed.

“I always strive to improve and I say that the next day will be better than the one before it.”

Source: TNT Sports Mexico