Barcelona: Barcelona head coach Ronal Koeman expressed profound admiration for Philipe Coutinho after the Brazilian scored a stunning goal in Barcelona’s victory over Valencia CF at Camp Nou.
“It was good,” Koeman told reporters at his post-match press conference when asked about Coutinho’s performance and impact following his introduction into the match.
“When he entered the game he was good. With his freedom we were able to control the game better. He knows how to score goals.”
“He has taken an important step because I have always believed in Coutinho. Physically, he is getting better and better.”
Returning back from International break, Barcelona secured a major victory in a must win match against Valencia. Although Valencia had taken a lead within the five minutes of opening but Barcelona’s new No. 10 came to rescue. The second was scored by Memphis Depay from a controversial spot kick while Coutinho scored the third. Talking of the second goal, the Dutch boss said,
“You can doubt whether it is a penalty or not,” he added. “The referee has whistled, the VAR has not entered and, therefore, it is a penalty.”
Barcelona’s win have revived a lot of hopes for the team, which were dimmed with consecutive disappointing performances. Barcelona will be facing Dynamo Kyiv in a hope to qualify for the next round of Champions League.
