By Alex Molina / info@eurohoops.net
Xavi Pascual continues his winning streak at Barça. A resounding victory for the “Blaugrana” against Olympiacos (98-85) puts them at 10-5 in the EuroLeague and proves their improving form with each game.
In the post-game press conference, the coach highlighted the game plan he had prepared, the path forward, and the importance of victories at the Palau Blaugrana.
“I want to thank the Palau and all the fans for everything they give us. The team was always playing well throughout the game, despite some ups and downs, which are normal in these matches,” Pascual began.
“We always had the focus, intensity, and ideas to win the game against an extraordinary opponent, who scored a lot of points at the end of the shot clock, which is an excellent quality they possess. They were always competitive, but from the third quarter onwards, the game was ours until the end,” he analyzed in the press conference.
The third quarter was dominant, perhaps Barça’s best stretch of the season so far. “We played very well in that period. I don’t know if it was our best or not, but we played very well, both offensively and defensively. We had a brilliant third quarter, our best quarter offensively and defensively. Maybe not the last two, but in the first eight minutes we were extraordinary,” he said about his team’s performance.
“If you want to compete in the EuroLeague, you have to be solid at home. Win at home and win some away games. The game we won in Belgrade was also very complete. The team had an important victory, but today’s was too. Today’s victory is special because it’s a big night, also with the fans. We celebrated together, this magical connection with the Palau,” Pascual added.
“We’re heading in the right direction, and it’s special to win here at home. These two games have been very important,” he told the media.
“We’re taking it one step at a time. We’re going to lose someday, surely soon, but we have to keep going. We’re not going to win every game; that’s not going to happen. We have to understand that the path forward requires intensity, concentration, and dedication. It’s important work. We have a tight schedule now; I don’t know how we’re going to manage it, but we’ll try,” he said about the team’s winning streak.
“Beyond the victories, the team is starting to develop an identity, which is the most important thing. Creating a competitive DNA and having everyone stick together,” he concluded.