FC Barcelona fought out a 3-3 draw against Inter Milan in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final last night. Surprisingly, the Italians scored two goals in the first phase of the game, and then scored another in the second half.
However, the Blaugranes were also equal to the task and drew the game twice before it ended with both sides standing even ahead of the second leg in Milan.
As has been the case in this entire UCL campaign for the Catalans, Raphinha was once again crucial for his side. He provided the assist for the second goal scored by Ferran Torres while also scoring the third goal, although it was given as an own goal by UEFA.
Raphinha unhappy with goals conceded
As Mundo Deportivo has reported, the Brazilian star also talked to the media after the game. The forward rued the fact that his team had conceded so many goals at home:
“Conceding so many goals at home is unacceptable, but credit must go to Inter, who are very strong on corners.”
With a 3-3 scoreline going into the second leg, Raphinha believed both teams still have everything to fight for:
“Everything is still up for grabs in the second leg, which we’ll prepare well — it’s not the worst result… at 0-2 we had to stay calm, play our game, and come back.”
Barcelona’s risky approach to the game
The Brazilian forward also talked about why the Blaugrana team took so many risks:
“Maybe we took too many risks, but at home we had to — it was our duty to win.”
The Samba star also felt sorry for Lamine Yamal who could not mark his 100th appearance with a win, but was still a treat to watch:
“Surely Lamine Yamal would have preferred a win for his 100th match.”
The Brazilian also admitted that he got lucky with his goal:
“I hit it hard at 3-3 and got lucky with the rebound.”
There is no doubt that Raphinha would once again be key for Barcelona as they play the second leg next week. Hopefully, he will be able to get some goals to his name in that game to get past Serhou Guirassy as the top scorer in the UCL.
