Busquets targets six points against BATE Borisov
Sergio Busquets underlined the importance of not slipping up in either of Barcelona’s games against BATE Borisov. The Catalan side face back-to-back Champions League fixtures against the Belarusian side and two wins would leave them with one foot in the last 16. “Depending on the result of Bayer-Roma and Roma-Bayer, it’s clear that we could seal qualification to the next round if we take six points.”
Asked once again about Lionel Messi’s absence, Busquets did not hide the fact it’s impossible not to miss him. “We notice [when he’s not there], he’s the one that can best unbalance teams, who gives the most assists… he is the best in the world. Even though the system and the way of playing is practically the same without him, it’s clear that have to make sure [his absence] is minimised.”
On the step forward Neymar’s taken, the midfielder said that the leader on the pitch “should be someone with his characteristics. I hope he can continue on his streak.”
In reference to the difficulties BATE could generate, Busquets was honest but also prudent. “In the Champions League, any game is tough away from home. They may not seem like a side who will qualify, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make things difficult,” he opined, before adding that he expects them to be “compact and that back and to try and counter-attack when they can.”
Finally, he didn’t look for excuses when asked if the FIFA ban, injuries and pre-season are affecting the Catalan side’s form. “Pre-season was not the best, but we don’t have any excuses. Many ‘top’ teams also did the same [in pre-season],” he concluded.
