Bola.net – Barcelona succeeded in securing a ticket to the Copa del Rey semifinals in a dramatic way. Hansi Flick gave special praise to Ronald Araujo who was the hero of the victory.
Blaugrana narrowly won 2-1 over Albacete in the match Wednesday (4/2/2026) early this morning WIB. This match was a moment comeback emotional for Araujo into the starting XI.
The defender from Uruguay immediately wore the captain’s armband after being absent for two months. He even scored the decisive goal that saved Barcelona’s face.
Hansi Flick admitted he was impressed by the defender’s instant impact. The German coach even violated his own “step by step” principle.
Kudos to Araujo
Barcelona captain, Ronald Araujo after scoring a goal against Albacete in the Copa del Rey, February 4, 2026. (c) AP Photo/Manu Fernandez
Flick is usually very careful when playing players who are recovering from injury. However, Araujo’s performance forced him to give higher appreciation.
Flick sees Araujo’s contribution as vital to the team’s mentality. This goal is considered a turning point in the player’s confidence.
“It’s really great. For him, I usually say step by step, but this is great,” said Hansi Flick.
“Now he scored a very important goal for us,” he added.
Self Confidence Injection
Flick considered the goal to be more than just a number on the scoreboard. This became a panacea for Araujo’s psychology after a long injury.
The player was seen fighting to the last drop of blood. He even looked very tired when the referee blew the long whistle.
“I think this can help him be more confident. To believe in himself more,” stressed Flick.
“And this is what we needed, what he needed, and we helped him,” he continued.
Finishing Issues Become the Spotlight
Even though they won, Barcelona was actually made nervous by their opponents. They needed a goal line clearance in the final minute to secure the score.
Flick highlighted the poor finishing of his team’s front line. Of the 16 shots fired, only six were on target.
“We have to improve our finishing, but we can’t talk about mentality,” said Flick evaluating.
“This team fought until the end. Cup games like this have to be won, and we did,” he added.
Ter Stegen Bad News
Apart from this victory, Sports Director Deco brought bad news. He touched on the fate of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen who is on loan.
The German goalkeeper is threatened with being absent for several months due to injury at Girona. This situation makes Barcelona management also concerned.
“We are saddened by the injury he suffered. Marc’s situation did not go as expected because of the injury,” said Deco.
