Xavi Hernandez said the Barcelona players tried all they knew to unlock the APOEL defence in their Champions League game on Wednesday.
The 34-year-old was given his first start of the season by boss Luis Enrique, equalling Raul’s record of 142 appearances in the competition, but he was unable to provide any inspiration to his teammates as they struggled to a 1-0 success against the group minnows.
“We suffered a lot and tried everything possible. When things don’t go for you and as the minutes go by you don’t create any clear-cut chances, then the opposition gain more confidence,” Xavi told Canal Plus TV post-match.
Even so, the experienced midfielder said he was glad to have finally got an outing, although he was substituted by Andres Iniesta on the hour mark.
“I’m happy and it’s important to enjoy the minutes I played, to do well and be available to the Coach.
“I started the season with some injury problems but I will try to play a bigger part throughout the year,” he added, before praising the performances of youngsters Samper, Munir and Sandro.
“Today is further proof that we can trust them,” said Xavi.
