6 December 2012 13:38
Benfica winger Nolito says his side deserved to beat Barcelona in their Champions League clash on Wednesday.
The Portuguese outfit would have secured progress to the knock-out stages had they beaten the Barca, but Celtic’s 2-1 win over Spartak Moscow meant Benfica’s Champions League adventure came to an end.
“It’s a bittersweet feeling as we leave knowing we did everything in our power to win. We deserved victory. But there are times when the ball just won’t go in for you and that was the case here,” Nolito told UEFA.com after the 0-0 draw.
“Honestly, I think that we can be proud because there are few teams who get a draw here and to perform like we did tonight is impressive, against the best team in the world.
“It’s great to play here, in front of these fans, and in the end I’m only sad that we didn’t win the victory we merited.”
Benfica finished third in Group G, and qualify for the Europa League round of 32.