Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is optimistic about his team’s performance ahead of their Champions League clash with Benfica in Lisbon on Tuesday. After a disappointing run in La Liga, where the Catalan side has managed only one win in their last eight games, Flick aims to turn their domestic struggles into European success.
Despite their lackluster league form, Barcelona has excelled in European competition and currently sits second in their Champions League group standings. A victory against Benfica would secure their qualification for the last 16. Flick pointed to recent successes, such as their Spanish Super Cup victory over Real Madrid and a Copa del Rey last-16 win against Real Betis, as evidence of a potential resurgence in form. However, the frustration of a 1-1 draw against Getafe in their most recent La Liga match remains a concern.
🎙️ HANSI FLICK: "The Champions League is one of the hardest competitions to win. We are doing very well right now, but there are also some very good teams."#BenficaBarça | @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/tCfc46Wehu
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 20, 2025
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Flick acknowledged the team’s league struggles: “When you see La Liga and the results, it’s not good, 100 percent. There’s nothing to hide. It’s not what we want. But when I see how we played after the (winter) break, it was really good… so I hope tomorrow we’ll see my team playing another style of football.”
Flick praised Benfica for their attacking style and highlighted Ángel Di María as a key player. The 36-year-old former Real Madrid midfielder, who missed Benfica’s 4-0 victory over Famalicão due to a knock, is expected to return for the match. Flick referred to Di María as “one of my favorite players” and admired his continued impact on the field.
Benfica coach Bruno Lage, meanwhile, recognized Barcelona as one of the favorites to win the Champions League. “Of course, they’re among the favorites because of what they are doing and because they are a historic team, a team of great quality,” Lage said. He added that Barcelona’s current style under Flick is marked by a more vertical and pressing approach, which poses a significant challenge for his side.
The match presents a critical opportunity for Barcelona to regain momentum. A win in Lisbon could not only advance them in the Champions League but also serve as a much-needed boost as they navigate their domestic struggles.