Barcelona Coach Hails Team Victory

 

Luis Enrique saw room for improvement but admitted his side had drawn strength from their 1-0 win at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. The champions have maximum points from their two La Liga matches, with Ivan Rakitic's powerful header from an Arda Turan cross in the 21st minute proving to be the difference.

However, Barca were given a tough examination at San Mames and Enrique was pleased to head into the international break with a perfect record, despite missing the talents of Neymar and Andres Iniesta.

He said “It is very difficult to play at San Mames. This is a result which really strengthens us. We were very serious in our approach and we put in a great physical effort. I think we could have finished the game off earlier than we did, but we put in a great performance. It was three points earned with great merit. We have started this season the way we finished the last - the players look engaged and want to set the sort of pace to make us the leaders. Although we are lacking some players at the moment, I see a great squad that is eager to compete.”