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Barcelona dominated at Nou Camp, Xavi claims

24/04/2008

Midfielder Xavi claimed Barcelona "dominated" Manchester United in the goalless first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

The visitors had an early opportunity to take the lead when Gabriel Milito handballed Cristiano Ronaldo's header, but the winger blazed his spot-kick wide of the post.

After that the Spaniard's had the lion's share of possession but failed to create any more than one clear-cut chances, which was wasted by Samuel Eto'o.

Substitute Thierry Henry had a stinging late shot parried away by Edwin van der Sar, but otherwise United's defence stood firm against the Catalan giants' onslaught.

Although Xavi believes Barca's performance suggests they can go to Old Trafford, score goals and even win the game as a result.

"The only thing missing was the goal and that leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. We dominated the 90 minutes," Xavi said afterwards.

"We are happy with the image we gave, but not the result."

He continued: "This team is capable of going to any ground and winning, so I have no doubt we can make the final."

The last time Manchester United and Barcelona met at Old Trafford the game ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw in the 1998/99 season, and striker Eto'o believes scoring away from home again is very much on the cards.

"0-0 is not a bad result at all," he claimed.

"A goal away from home is worth double and we can definitely score at Old Trafford."