Pedri talks Raphinha, Yamal, Lewandowski, Balde, Szczesny, Cubarsi red card after Benfica win | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Pedri delivered an outstanding performance against Benfica, proving to be the most influential player on the pitch.

His tireless work rate and ability to dictate the tempo were crucial in helping the team secure a hard-fought victory in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16. T

he match became significantly more challenging after Pau Cubarsi was sent off in the 21st minute, forcing Barcelona to play with ten men for the majority of the game.

Despite being a man down, Barcelona remained organised, making the most of the few chances they created.

Pedri acknowledged the team’s resilience, highlighting the determination shown to defend and capitalise on scoring opportunities.

“What the team achieved today after the sending off is very meritorious.

“Today we knew how to defend and take advantage of the opportunities we had with Raphinha (scorer of Barça’s goal ), Lamine and Robert,” said the midfielder after the game.

On Cubarsi’s red card

Pau Cubarsi was sent off against Benfica (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

The dismissal of Cubarsí altered the dynamics of the game, but Pedri pointed out a controversial moment before the incident.

He suggested that there may have been a foul committed by the Greek striker on Frenkie de Jong before the sending-off, which could have changed the course of events.

Nevertheless, Barcelona had no choice but to adjust to the situation and focus on securing the result. “We believe that the striker committed a foul before.”

On Aljenadro Balde

Pedri said Alejandro Balde was tired. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

The physical demands of the match were evident, with several players visibly fatigued. Alejandro Balde was struggling towards the end, and even Pedri himself admitted to feeling the strain.

However, he understood the importance of giving everything until the final whistle, knowing that protecting the lead was essential for the second leg.

“Balde looked exhausted and I was starting to feel a bit overwhelmed, but I knew I had to run as fast as anyone because we had to keep the score for the return match,” he explained.

Thoughts on Szczesny

Wojciech Szczesny put on a brilliant performance. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While Pedri was a standout performer, another key figure in the victory was Wojciech Szczesny. The goalkeeper produced a remarkable display, making eight crucial saves to keep Barcelona ahead.

His performance was a significant improvement from his previous outing at the same venue, where things had not gone in his favour.

“It was his best game, the last time we played here, things didn’t go well for him and today he saved many chances for us, especially at the start of the match. He is very great between the sticks.”

Looking forward to the return leg

Pedri was sensational against Benfica. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Looking ahead to the second leg at Montjuïc, Pedri acknowledged that the job is only half done.

While the team is pleased with the result, the focus now shifts to finishing the task at home and ensuring qualification for the next round.

“We are satisfied with today’s game but the other half of the work remains, we have to win at home and get through the tie,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo