Atletico made it difficult for Barcelo: Iniesta

Barcelo, Jan 22: Barcelo midfield maestro Andres Iniesta says he is satisfied with a 1–0 Copa del Rey win over Atletico Madrid as Diego Simeone’s men made it hard for them to play their game at the Camp Nou.

Lionel Messi’s late strike – a follow–up to his own missed pelty – gave the Catalans a rrow first–leg lead after a hard–fought encounter which did not see much in the way of clear–cut chances for either side on Wednesday.

“It’s a good result, but it’s not over. The next 90 minutes will be very tense. We’ve done a great job in front of a very tough rival. We need to continue like this,” he was quoted as saying by goal.com after the match. “The 1–0 makes us happy. Having a clean sheet is a step but does not guarantee anything. We’re trying to get things right at the back. It’s hard to play Atletico because they leave you very few options but I still think we played well and were superior in areas.” The 30–year–old Iniesta went on to say that he is satisfied with his own form but is still hoping to improve before the end of the season.

“I feel good, you have to be happy. There’s always something left to think about and maybe that is to come in the rest of the season.” IANS