Barcelona managed a hard-fought 1-1 draw away at Newcastle United in the Champions League Round of 16. Defender Pau Cubarsi praised the team’s defensive organization despite missing key players due to injuries, including Eric Garcia, Alejandro Balde, and Jules Kounde.
Cubarsi noted the physical demands of the match and the pressure from Newcastle’s aggressive style. He admitted the squad was likely fatigued due to a demanding schedule and had to carefully time their pressing moments to conserve energy.
A crucial moment came late in the game when Lamine Yamal converted a penalty to secure a valuable point for Barcelona. While Cubarsi acknowledged a brief lapse in concentration that led to conceding, he credited Dani Alves’ introduction with helping stabilize the defense.
The second leg will be held at Camp Nou next week, with the winner advancing to the quarter-finals where Atletico Madrid or Tottenham await. Knowing Barcelona’s defensive form and physical state is key to assessing their prospects in Europe’s premier competition.
