Barcelona faces a significant challenge in their quest for the Champions League semi-finals following a 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their quarter-final tie. Hansi Flick’s squad needs to secure at least a two-goal victory at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano to have a chance of advancing, a feat that, while difficult, is not out of the realm of possibility.
There is a strong sense of belief within the Barcelona camp that a turnaround is achievable. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, the former club captain currently on loan at Girona, shared this optimism with TV3 (via MD), stating his conviction that Barcelona can mount a successful comeback.
“The return leg is still to come. They can definitely win the tie. They know what it’s like to come back, as do I,” Ter Stegen commented.
Ter Stegen Hopeful of World Cup Call-up
Ter Stegen has been sidelined for the past two months due to hamstring surgery, which had cast a shadow over his prospects for the 2026 World Cup. However, he remains hopeful of making the trip to North America this summer, contingent on performing well for Girona upon his return to play.
“The injury is going well, I’m leading a normal life. I feel well, free of movement. The important thing is to arrive in good health and we will see at the end of the season. It’s complicated. I will not force anything because health is the most important thing, but there is also a desire to be in the World Cup. There are many circumstances, I respect all the decisions that are going to be made. I’m very calm.”
The coming weeks will be pivotal for Ter Stegen. He is nearing the completion of his recovery and is expected to be back in action before the end of April, providing him with a few crucial matches to demonstrate his capabilities to the German national team. Whether this will be sufficient remains to be seen.
