Fermin Lopez admitted that his side were not "at their sharpest" during the first half because "they were pressing really well through the middle". "With the goal, we felt much more liberated to play our game and secure the win," he told 'Movistar' after the final whistle.

The midfielder went on to net the winner in the second half courtesy of an assist from Lamine Yamal. "We know each other inside out. The pass for the second was half the goal, and I am delighted for him as well," he declared.

"It was a very difficult match. Last season they beat us in the Copa and the Champions League. We knew what they would bring—a really tough test. Their goal made things difficult for us in the first half, but we mounted a comeback and took control of the game," he concluded.