The UEFA Champions League anthem will once again blare in Barcelona this season, as the club managed to qualify for the Round of 16 tie.
After successive demotions to the Europa League, Barça will take pride in finally making it past the group stages. But the challenges in front of them are only going to grow from hereon.
Earlier today, it was confirmed that Barcelona will be locking horns with Napoli in the Champions League round of 16.
Clashing against an Italian heavyweight, the Catalan giants certainly have their work cut out. However, the opposition remains aware of Barcelona’s pedigree as Napoli’s coach Walter Mazzarri has acknowledged the threat Barça are bound to pose.
Mazzarri gives Barcelona respect
The coach acknowledged that at this point of the competition, there are no more pushovers left. Still, he recognized Barcelona as a particularly formidable foe.
“After the match against Cagliari, I said that all the teams qualifying for the round of 16 are strong, and therefore any match will be difficult, but this match against Barcelona is particularly difficult.” Mazzarri expressed (h/t FCB World)
“For us, facing Barcelona will be a great challenge,” he added.
Barcelona are currently third in La Liga, struggling to find consistency in results as the hopes of retaining their title are slipping away.
Yet, with the quality they possess on paper, the Blaugranes cannot be ruled out as a contender for the competition, and Mazzarri is aware of the difficult task at hand.
Meanwhile, his own side have also been subject to tough patches over the course of the campaign, as the Italians are placed fifth in the Serie A standings.
Nonetheless, Napoli’s individual quality is also through the roof, and on their day, can trample any opposition.
With ample time remaining before the two sides lock horns, it is safe to presume that both Napoli and Barcelona will be looking to regain their rhythm ahead of one of the most anticipated ties of the tournament.
