Gerard Pique has praised Barcelona’s Cup opponents Cordoba for making the first leg of their Last 16 Copa del Rey clash difficult.
Barca ran out 2-0 winners on Wednesday night thanks to a double from Lionel Messi, but not before the Blaugrana were put through their paces, according to their centre-back.
“We suffered a lot in the first few minutes, but we did well in defence,” Pique told reporters afterwards.
“We knew they would be a very tricky opponent at home since their fans have been fantastic and that has helped them a lot.
“Messi’s goals? Game by game he shows that he is still the best. He has the same desire to win and score. But, at 0-2 the tie is not yet over.
“My physical condition? I feel good on the field. I can always improve, I will try to keep going in this way.”
