Barcelona booked their place in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League courtesy of the 2-1 win over FC Porto at Montjuic last night.
Having once again fallen behind to their opponents, Barcelona fought their way back into the context as Joao Cancelo scored the equalising goal before his compatriot Joao Felix finished the job for the team.
While Cancelo was the standout performer by some distance on the night, Inaki Pena was another player who put his hand up when Barça needed it most.
In a high-pressure encounter, the La Masia graduate ensured Barcelona did not miss Marc-Andre ter Stegen, making several crucial stops to keep the Catalans in the game.
Pena happy with win
Following the match, Pena interacted with the media and expressed his delight at making it through to the knockout stages of the Champions League, saying:
“We knew it was a turning point, that this match would be like a final. We had to take the game as a way of getting the three points to have more peace of mind and certify our qualification with one game to go. We are very happy after two tough years in the Europa League.”
Pena’s display in the goal earned a lot of chants and cheers from the fans at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys and the 24-year-old expressed his gratitude towards the supporters, saying:
“A lot of gratitude. I thank the fans for chanting my name and for valuing me. I can only thank them for the way they have behaved, not just me, but the whole team. At 0-1, it was a bit complicated and with their help, we managed to equalise.”
Talking about his role and the opportunity he has been given in the last two matches, the La Masia graduate said: “Work is rewarded and I’m very happy. The role of second-choice goalkeeper lacks continuity, but we know what we have to do.
“In a club like this we can’t spare any minutes. You’ve been working since you were little, you come to La Masia when you’re 11 or 12 years old to experience days like this.”
Joao Felix ends the rut
It was a memorable evening for Joao Felix as well, as he finally put an end to his goalscoring rut that had lasted for more than ten games.
The 24-year-old was at hand to score what would prove to be the match-winner for Barcelona and expressed his pleasure after the win, saying:
“The goal was important for the team. I go to every game to try to do the best I can to help the team because it’s also possible to help the team without scoring goals and playing well. That’s what I try to do in every game.
“If the goal comes, all the better. If not, what I try to do is help the team. As long as I’m here I’ll defend Barça to the death.”
