Ghanaians Kevin-Prince Boateng and Sulley Muntari scored one apiece in a lively second half as the hosts, impressive defensively throughout, stunned the Catalans in their last 16, first-leg, at the San Siro.
Roura, standing in for Tito Vilanova, admitted the Blaugrana had simply not done enough. But he also claimed the pitch was unfit for such a big tie.
“It’s bad to lose 2-0 but we’re convinced that when we’ll be playing at home in front of our own fans on a pitch that is fit for this competition, we will overcome this setback,” said Roura.
For Massimiliano Allegri the win – Milan’s first over Barca in the competition since 2000 – was more than welcome.
The Rossoneri coach was lucky to avoid the sack after a disastrous start to the Serie A season, but has overseen a significant improvement since then.
“It’s a great and deserved win for us,” said Allegri. “We worked hard as a club to prepare for this match and the lads did a great job.”
Galatasaray rue Schalke draw
Meanwhile, Galatasaray midfielder Nordin Amrabat has admitted the ambitious Turkish team face an uphill task to stay in the Champions League after their 1-1 draw at home to Schalke in the last 16, first-leg.
“The formula for victory is very simple: we need to score and win, but it won’t be easy,” said Amrabat.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 22nd, 2013.
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