aAll eyes will be on the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, with Barcelona looking to use their lead and home field advantage to pull off a comeback against Atltico Madrid.
Ahead of the decisive battle, Lamine Yamal gave an interview to the press and once again showed his character with a direct message to Diego Simeone.
Yamal challenges “Choro” before the match
Barra needs to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the first leg at Camp Nou and win the second leg by at least three goals, or score at least two goals to force extra time and penalties. And all while keeping a clean sheet.
Although the situation is not the most favorable for Callus, Lamine believes in the comeback of himself and Hansi Flick’s team. Evidence of this was his statement at the pre-game press conference.
“I’m feeling great. I’m really looking forward to tomorrow’s game. I’m motivated and want to make a difference,” he began, adding:
Let’s see if Choro will do me a favor and set up a one-on-one with me and a player – I hope so.
Far from sounding provocative, Yamal’s comments were interpreted as a sign of confidence in his ability to prove that he can make a difference, especially in one-on-one situations.
The 18-year-old has contributed to Barcelona throughout this season in both domestic competitions and the Champions League, scoring 22 goals and providing 18 assists in 43 appearances.
On the other hand, there is a lot at stake for both teams. The Catalans have not won the Champions League for over 10 years, while the Rojiblancos have yet to win the Champions League.
Atltico Madrid and Barcelona will face off on April 14th at the Metropolitano for a place in the Champions League semi-finals. The game is scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM ET.
