Mendieta Backs Barcelona Against Chelsea
Date: 14-02-2006 01:07
Buoyed by Middlesborough's win over Chelsea, former Barcelona midfielder Gaizka Mendieta has backed his old team against against the Londoners.
“Both teams are not at their best,” said the twice Champions League finalist with Valencia. “But Barcelona have the edge.”
“Chelsea thrive on the counter, and in dead-ball situations,” said the former Spanish international. “And Barcelona know it themselves from last year.
“As opposed to that, Barcelona have a more complete game, and like to touch the ball. The second leg will be at home, and they will know how to use the home advantage as well.
Asked how important it was to score first against the English Champions, the former Spanish international said: “Very. On Saturday, we showed that Chelsea don't like coming from behind, even if they have done it a few times.
“However, I do not believe that Barcelona should play Chelsea as we did. I do not see Barca playing four specialist defenders, packing five in the middle, and playing with just the one up front.”
Barcelona travel to London in a week's time, to face Chelsea in the first leg of their Champions League knock-out clash.
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