Rudi Garcia explained his tactical approach to Barcelona and why Daniele De Rossi showed “incredible intelligence” for Roma.
“It’s a huge result to draw with Barcelona and really boosts our confidence. We were tactically smart, knew that against Barcelona you have to work hard and defend stoically,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.
“We could’ve done better in holding possession and being dangerous on the counter, but I am satisfied, as the lads responded well and did what we had prepared.”
Rudi Garcia explained his tactical approach to Barcelona and why Daniele De Rossi showed “incredible intelligence” for Roma.
“It’s a huge result to draw with Barcelona and really boosts our confidence. We were tactically smart, knew that against Barcelona you have to work hard and defend stoically,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.
“We could’ve done better in holding possession and being dangerous on the counter, but I am satisfied, as the lads responded well and did what we had prepared.”
The Giallorossi started the Champions League campaign with an impressive 1-1 draw against reigning trophy holders Barcelona, a far cry from their 7-1 defeat to Bayern Munich.
“This team has grown and I said last year’s Champions League experience was important. We also brought in players like Edin Dzeko and Mohamed Salah who have already been in this tournament.
“Obviously all the lads were great, because you cannot hold Barcelona without all 14 players doing well, including those off the bench.
“We got the equaliser with that historic goal from Alessandro Florenzi that will be replayed many, many times.”
Garcia explained his tactics, as Roma fought Barcelona with their own version of 4-3-3.
“I wanted to use 11 players in a chameleonic way, as I wanted us to be able to change attitude and even system with the same players.
“De Rossi approached his role in a slightly different way. He didn’t just sit in front of the defence, but pressured Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta and the others who came his way.
“We studied that Leo Messi and Neymar go between the lines, so it was Daniele’s job to face them and prevent us getting over-run. He showed incredible intelligence tonight and gave the team great balance.
“Iago Falque is a top level player, but also balances out teams. He has a very good rapport with Lucas Digne. We know Dzeko’s quality, keeping the ball with his back to goal, holding it up and frightening Barcelona.
“The trident was important to get a result, though I also liked Juan Manuel Iturbe when he came off the bench.”