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Barcelona's rising star defender, Pau Cubarsi, showcased his defensive prowess, thwarting Napoli's lethal striker, Victor Osimhen, at every turn.
Partnering with Ronald Araujo in the heart of Barcelona's defence, the 17-year-old, in his debut Champions League appearance, displayed a masterful performance, allowing Napoli only four shots on target, with Osimhen managing just one.
Xavi’s men came out victorious with a 3-1 win over Napoli to seal a place in the quarter-final of the UEFA Champions League.
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12:41 - 13.03.2024
They didn't believe in me — Xavi defies critics as Barca knock out Osimhen's Napoli
Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez believes his side silenced critics with their 3-1 win over Napoli in the UEFA Champions League.
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08:28 - 13.03.2024
The numbers behind Osimhen's silent night against 17-year-old Barca teen Cubarsi
Barcelona and Pau Cubarsi proved to be too strong for Nigeria's Victor Osimhen and SSC Napoli in the Champions League.
Xavi's Tactical Genius Pays Off
Cubarsi, a product of Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy, attributed his stellar performance to the guidance of coach Xavi Hernandez, who provided him with the necessary tools to neutralize last season's Serie A top scorer.
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"Xavi gave me the details on what to do to stop Osimhen, and the fans in the stands helped us a lot, they were the 12th player.
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“It’s an honour to make my Champions League debut by winning the Man of the Match award and reaching the quarter-finals," Cubarsi revealed, as reported by Get Football Spain.
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Xavi, in turn, praised Cubarsi's composure in such a high-stakes match, highlighting his ability to dictate the tempo and create opportunities for his team.
“Cubarsí was never nervous, always finding the free man. He creates time for himself, he dictates the tempo. It’s simply spectacular watching him play,” Xavi remarked.
Cubarsi's outstanding performance saw him win all six of his ground duels, particularly against Osimhen. Additionally, he made five clearances and maintained an impressive 90% pass accuracy, solidifying his status as a rising star in the football world.
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