Barcelona coach Hansi Flick demands a strong response against Girona following a heavy Copa del Rey defeat to Atletico Madrid.

BARCELONA: Coach Hansi Flick has demanded a strong reaction from his Barcelona side when they face Girona in La Liga on Monday. This follows a demoralising 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg last Thursday.

Flick admitted his team lacked the necessary competitive attitude in that heavy loss. He stated that Atletico were superior in every duel and displayed greater dynamism during the match.

“The first 45 minutes were not right,” Flick told reporters. “We did not have the attitude to be competitive in this situation, in every duel, one against one situation, they were much better, (more) dynamic — this is what I want from the team.”

The German coach was encouraged by his squad’s response in training since the defeat. He emphasised the need to translate that improved mentality onto the pitch against Girona.

Flick backed his team’s quality to recover and challenge for honours this season. He stressed the importance of a unified team performance moving forward.

“When we play as a team, everyone 100 percent, we have huge quality,” Flick continued. “Defeats happen, but it’s important how you react. This reaction I want to see tomorrow.”

In team news, Brazilian winger Raphinha is fit to return against Girona. Flick hailed the player’s importance, calling him the world’s best last season.

Marcus Rashford remains sidelined with a knee issue, though his condition is improving. Barcelona’s upcoming match takes on added significance after Real Madrid’s win moved them two points clear at the top of La Liga.

Flick also walked back post-match comments criticising the officiating in the Atletico defeat. He clarified that the referee was not at fault for the loss.

“It was not (the referee’s) fault we lost the game,” he added. “What we can change, we have to change, and we will do.”

 The Sun Malaysia