Hansi Flick: Barcelona dejected after Champions League defeat to Dortmund despite progressing

A hat trick from Serhou Guirassy brought Barcelona's 24-match unbeaten streak in 2025 to an end at Signal Iduna Park, where a vibrant home crowd spurred Dortmund to an inspired performance. However, Barca's dominant 4-0 first-leg victory ensured a 5-3 aggregate win and progression to the last four for the first time since 2019.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Flick acknowledged the disappointment within the squad but emphasized the achievement.

"The atmosphere in the dressing room was subdued," Flick said. "It was only after I reminded the players, 'We're in the semifinal,' that the mood began to lift. Naturally, they are disappointed with the result, but their expectations are high. They want to win every match."

Flick rotated his squad for the second leg, resting key players such as Pedri and Inigo Martínez. Left-back Alejandro Balde was also unavailable due to injury. Dortmund capitalized early, with Guirassy converting a penalty and adding a second goal shortly after halftime. An own goal from Ramy Bensebaini briefly restored a measure of control for Barcelona, but Guirassy completed his hat trick to create a tense finale.

Despite the defeat, Flick maintained that his team had earned their place in the semifinals.

"We played two matches. We were clearly superior in the first, and Dortmund responded well in the second," he said. "They made things difficult for us tonight. The atmosphere was exceptional. But overall, I believe we deserved to advance."

With Barcelona still competing on three fronts - the Champions League, LaLiga, and the Copa del Rey - Flick acknowledged that the team's demanding schedule may have affected their performance levels.

"We will certainly analyze this match," he added. "There have been many fixtures in recent weeks, and a dip in form can be understandable. Nonetheless, I am proud of what the team has achieved so far. Reaching the semifinals is a significant accomplishment."

Barcelona now return to domestic competition with LaLiga fixtures against Celta Vigo and Mallorca as they aim to maintain their four-point lead at the top of the table. They will then face Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final on April 26.

Defender Jules Kounde echoed Flick's sentiments, admitting disappointment with the team's performance in Dortmund.

"We are pleased to have progressed, but we are not satisfied with how we played," Kounde said. "We lost some of the qualities that served us so well in the first leg - pressing, closing down spaces. We made mistakes and lacked concentration. The coach urged us to improve at halftime, and perhaps we responded slightly, but it was not enough."

Kounde concluded by stressing the importance of consistency.

"We must continue with the same level of commitment and focus that has brought us this far. While there is room for improvement, we should also recognize the work the team has put in throughout the season."

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