Xavi's tactical mastery set to shine in Spanish Super Cup showdown against Real Madrid
- Rob Fleming
- 12 January 2024
Xavi Hernandez is gearing up for his second Spanish Super Cup final as a coach, facing Real Madrid on Sunday, a rematch of last year's 3-1 triumph in Saudi Arabia.
The path to the final required Barcelona to secure a 2-0 win over Osasuna, a performance Xavi labelled as "sober" and a victory he deemed "deserved."
"The game had its moments; we dominated a lot, had possession, but it was challenging as they defend well. The centre-backs close in, making it hard to find spaces. We knew we would generate less than usual, but overall, we had a sober game — not excellent or brilliant, but good. We could have sealed it earlier, and we're content," Xavi commented, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, on the semifinal.
He commended the impact of substitutes: "Joao Felix came in well; Lamine (Yamal) and Pedri too. The changes strengthened us, leading to the 2-0. There's room for improvement, though. Lamine, at just 16, shows remarkable talent. When Pedri plays, everything becomes clear. It went well, giving positive vibes for Sunday — great news. Playing with four midfielders? Nothing is ruled out; we'll assess injuries and knocks."
Highlighting the importance of a clean sheet, Xavi expressed satisfaction: "Maintaining a clean sheet is crucial; it's a significant point."
Regarding controversial moments, Xavi gave his take: "Initially, it looked like a red card for Catena, and Andreas' foul on Arnaiz, which led to Lewandowski's 1-0, seemed like one live. I would have blown the whistle, but on TV, there was no foul, and it didn't need to be called. Raphinha's potential red card was deemed unnecessary by the referee. As for Raphinha's condition, he has discomfort in the hamstring."
Turning attention to the impending clash with Real Madrid on Sunday, Xavi acknowledged the opponent's strength but emphasized the Clasico's unpredictable nature: "Finals are not played; they are won. Madrid looked impressive in their semifinal, better than a year ago. There's no clear favourite; it's a Clasico. Hopefully, we bring out our best version. Last year's final was one of my best games as a coach. Today is a step forward. First, enjoy the final, then compete."
Xavi believes in Barcelona's championship prospects: "With our methodology and competitive approach, we can win. Last year, we outperformed them, and even in this season's league Clasico, we were better until the 60th minute despite the loss. We need to showcase our DNA and our best football. We're highly motivated. Trying to replicate last year, even though Madrid has changed their system, playing without a pure '9', with (Jude) Bellingham arriving in a diamond shape. We'll play with our personality, aiming to attack and exploit spaces, adapting to challenges opponents pose."
