Skip to content

Enrique: Barcelona 'risked everything' in fearless fightback

Reuters / Albert Gea Livepic

If seven major titles weren't enough of a leaving gift, Luis Enrique will now have one of the most legendary continental encounters to his name when he steps down from his managerial post at the end of the season.

The Barcelona boss performed a backside slide and seemingly lost control of his limbs after Sergi Roberto belted a 95th-minute winner against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday. It completed a 6-5 aggregate win, where three goals were required to accomplish that feat with just two minutes of normal time remaining.

Related - Watch: Luis Enrique goes wild after Roberto's clinching goal

"I was brought to my knees," Enrique told Sky Sports' James Walker-Roberts.

"I would like to thank everyone who kept their faith after we lost 4-0. This is dedicated to them because this isn't the Harlem Globetrotters, this is football."

One player who didn't stop trying was Neymar, who scored two and assisted on Roberto's historic finish in the last seven minutes to ensure Barcelona reached a record 10th consecutive quarter-final.

For his part, Enrique said he didn't notice anyone in his ranks losing faith.

"I don't think anyone stopped believing. After seeing them sit back despite the goal, the team were incredible," said Enrique.

He added: "We risked everything and it paid off. You get finales like this very occasionally in football and this time it was our turn.

"A feat like this does everyone good and I'm delighted to enjoy a moment like this. The key was our efficiency. The sixth goal was scored with the hope of the fan who was on the other side of the world."

Related - Watch: Roberto's 95th-minute winner caps unbelievable Barca comeback

The draw for the last eight of the Champions League is in Nyon, Switzerland on March 17.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox