Thursday, 28th April, 2011
Barcelona coach Josep Guardiola believes that the sending off of Pepe in last night’s Champions League clash against Real Madrid was not necessarily the turning point of the match.
Pepe was handed a straight red for his high challenge on Dani Alves in the 61st minute, and Barcelona soon took advantage, with Lionel Messi scoring a brace, one in the 76th minute and one in the 87th minute. The Argentine’s second was glorious as he ran over 25 yards, drifting past four Real Madrid players, before slotting the ball home.
But for Guardiola, Barcelona were well in control of the game before the sending off.
"We played a great match. With 11 players we controlled the speed of Madrid’s attacks and their passing game.
"We were more aggressive and we must congratulate the team. A side like Madrid never give up a match or a tie."
And the Barcelona boss also warned it would be a mistake to believe they have booked their passage to Wembley just yet.
"Playing several times against the same team means that we know each other better than ever, so we must be careful. We have not reached the final. We’ve only won 2-0 in the first leg."
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