Barcelona Coach Tata Martino has praised the performances of Andres Iniesta, Javier Mascherano and Victor Valdes in the win over Manchester City.
La Blaugrana progressed to the Champions League quarter finals with the 2-1 win over the Premier League side on Wednesday contributing to a 4-1 aggregate triumph.
Speaking at his post-match Press conference, Martino highlighted the contributions of Iniesta, Mascherano and Valdes.
“Iniesta has been one of the most consistent players of the second half of the season,” Martino said.
“Mascherano has a way of playing that makes it difficult for him to make mistakes in games. He was once again one of the best players on the team,” the Coach added of his compatriot.
“Valdes has been very decisive in many matches this season, in the same way that the keepers at Madrid, Bayern and Atletico have been,” Martino argued of the soon-to-depart stopper.
Martino was a little less fulsome in his praise for Neymar but defended the Brazil forward against criticism of his efforts on the night.
“Neymar is very committed to the team. He did a great job defensively,” Martino insisted.
“In the first half he had two really good chances, but his reincorporation into the team means that he’s not yet ready to play 90 minutes.”
