Derby Was Always Going To Be Tough - Barça Stars

Eidur Gudjohnsen admitted that Barcelona's goalless draw against Espanyol in the Copa del Rey was probably not a great game to watch, but is confident that his side will progress to the semi final.

Expectations were high ahead of the last ever derby encounter at the Estadi Olímpic, but it was a dour affair as both sides cancelled each other out.

Now the tie will be settled at Camp Nou next week and Gudjohnsen is hopeful that, not only will it be a better match, but that Barcelona will raise their game.

“We play a lot of games during a season and games like this can help some players find their fitness and confidence. The decisions of the coach should be respected," he told the club's official website.

“We could have played better, but Espanyol were very strong and the factor of a new trainer motivated them.

"It was not the most attractive game of the season, but it was good enough because it is knock-out tie and this was the away game.

"A derby is never easy, but now the second match is in Camp Nou and the tie will be decided there”.

Captain Carles Puyol agreed and stated that he never expected the encounter to be an easy one for the high-flying Blaugrana against a resurgent Espanyol side.

“We knew that it would be a difficult game. They started very well and they created some chances. In the second half we improved and we controlled the game," he said.

“They have a good team; better than their league position indicates. However, against us they are always highly motivated. We have the second leg to come and we expect to win.”

Lucas Brown, Goal.com