‘This is the spirit we need’ – Raphinha sends message to Barcelona after Atletico win

Barcelona star Raphinha felt his team showed the right spirit to down Atletico Madrid 3-1 at Camp Nou on Tuesday and move four points clear at the top of the table.

Atletico took the lead in the game but Raphinha levelled shortly afterwards. Robert Lewandowski then missed from the penalty spot but Barca won thanks to goals from Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres.

Raphinha spoke to reporters afterwards and admitted that hard work and character had been key to the victory over Diego Simeone’s side.

“I think the important thing is to believe in the work. There are many matches where we can start losing. We have to be prepared. We’re working on it very well. This is the spirit we need to have to win matches like this,” he told the media.

“We might concede a goal, but we need to keep our heads to come back in a game like this. We knew how difficult this game would be and that we could end up like last year, with them scoring first.

“I think the more we press high up the pitch, the closer we are to the opponent’s goal. That way we’ll have more chances to score goals.”

Raphinha asked to be subbed in the second half but admitted it was only because of tiredness and not due to any more injury issues.

“I’m looking to get back to my best physical condition. I felt it today, a bit tired. I asked to be substituted because I couldn’t go on. Both Pedri and I have other high-quality players who can take our places,” he added.

“I think we’re gaining confidence game by game. We knew it was key for the league. These are three important points that can decide the league. If we keep picking up points game by game, everything will go much better.”