Barcelona Coach Tata Martino has welcomed the club’s progression to the Copa del Rey final, saying his players still relish big occasions.
The Catalans drew 1-1 with Real Sociedad at Anoeta on Wednesday night to win the semi-final 3-1 on aggregate and set up a meeting with Real Madrid.
Los Blancos dispatched Atletico Madrid 5-0 on aggregate with the final scheduled for April 19.
“There are three objectives for the year and in one of them we have managed to reach the final and we can win,” Martino told reporters.
“It’s a mission accomplished for these players, who year after year have the chance to play a final and now I am to join them.
“I think it’s great that these players still appreciate playing finals and getting to finals.
“We know how difficult an opponent we are facing and in a difficult setting.
“They’re happy to play the final against Madrid but know what’s expected in the League as well.”
Martino added that it’s far too early to judge the final with it not taking place for another two months. Valencia’s Mestalla is considered the likely host ground.
The Coach was asked about his decision to play Sergio Busquets despite the midfielder being a yellow card away from missing the final.
“I understood we had to play this way, to remove the rhythm of Real Sociedad and it went well.
“Busquets continued playing because players don’t always have to pick up cards. It was a lesson in how to play.
“The players are used to playing finals and qualifying for finals but we can still improve.”
