Midfielder Pedri returned from a muscle injury, coming on in the second half against Villarreal and significantly shifting the game’s momentum. His presence increased ball possession from 69% to 81%, providing an assist and pre-assist, earning admiration from fans and teammates alike.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick emphasized the team's unwavering belief in achieving the impossible, even after a heavy 4-0 first-leg loss to Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinal. The team faces challenges with key players like De Jong, Lewandowski, Eric García, and Christensen sidelined, but the youthful squad's energy and a dash of recklessness offer a vital psychological edge.
The team draws inspiration from past memorable comebacks, notably the historic 6-1 win over PSG after a 4-0 loss nine years ago, and a recent victory over Atlético where they overturned a 2-0 scoreline in just 20 minutes. Both Pedri and Flick believe this group has the capability to repeat such feats.
Pedri’s return elevates both the technical level and the squad's morale ahead of the crucial second leg at Camp Nou. The atmosphere promises to be hostile for Atlético, testing not only skill but also the young Barça team's character and willingness to take risks to reach the Copa final.
