Guardiola on seventh heaven as http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Barcelona-c38604 secure qualification for Champions League knockout stage
Barcelona coach, Pep Guardiola was in a jubilant mood after the 4-0 victory over Viktoria Plzen in UEFA Champions League. The Catalan team moves top of the table of Group H and have secured qualification to the knockout stage of the competition.
The coach remarked that the security of progression gives him a lot of peace and tranquility. Barca achieved the mark with two matches to spare.
The only question that remains is going into the next stage as group leaders.
Guardiola thanked his players for their performances in the competition that allowed them the guarantee with two matches remaining.
"I congratulate and thank all the players in the squad. Of course we will fight to be top, which is a great thing but we are very pleased to be in the second round, already," the Catalan coach said while presiding a press conference after the meeting in
Prague.
The coach also highlighted the increased competition in Europe and how lesser known clubs are giving the experienced campaigners a run for their money.
AC Milan were held to a 1-1 draw in Minsk by BATE Borisov, while Greek club, APOEL are leading the likes of http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/FC-Porto-c39186 and Shakhtar Donetsk.
Guardiola accepted that it is normal that underdogs are belittled by their opponents, however, the competition has become demanding over the last couple of seasons.
"Belittling opponents is normal because they are unknown, but when Milan went to BATE Borisov the draw was hard-earned. Europe is very demanding, and at this time of year, it is always very difficult,” Guardiola reflected on the current state of affairs
in Europe.
The Catalan manager praised his opposing team and stated that he were worthy opponents. Barca started the scoring with a penalty that also witnessed the ousting of a Viktoria Plzen player.
"It is difficult to play with ten, but you could not rule them out on the counterattack. They put a great impression, and caused a lot of problems at the Camp Nou, I hope they have a good future," Guardiola reflected.
Barcelona will take on the challenge of AC Milan in their next Champions League fixture. The match will be important as it will decide the winner of the group on the night.
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