Barcelona's disappointment during and after the defeat to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League is completely understandable. Blaugrana actually played better in the first leg of the quarter-finals at Camp Nou, even when they had to play more than half a match with 10 men after Pau Cubarsi's direct red card.
Hansi Flick's team controlled most of the ball, created more clear chances and twice hit the wooden frame. However, the turning point came when Julian Alvarez successfully took advantage of a direct free kick - a situation originating from Cubarsi's foul on Giuliano Simeone.
Entering the second half, Alexander Sorloth doubled the gap after an assist from Matteo Ruggeri, putting Barcelona in a difficult position before their trip to the Metropolitano.
Barcelona is a club with a long-standing and admirable football philosophy, built on Johan Cruyff's legacy. It is also the foundation that helps La Masia Academy continuously produce players with excellent technique and superior tactical thinking.
One of the most precious points of Barca is that they have never hesitated to give opportunities to young talents - which has become a part of the identity and pride of the Catalan team.
Among them, Lamine Yamal emerged as a special case. At the age of 18, this winger has shown the potential of a top attacking star, even compared to Lionel Messi. With a background from La Masia and outstanding development, Yamal is expected to become the next symbol of Blaugrana.
However, along with the potential are increasingly big questions about the psychology of the current Barca team. The team seems to be putting themselves in a higher position than reality, which makes them easily lose control after defeats. The feeling that they are "of course" capable of winning the Champions League seems to have never been reset.
This was clearly shown before the match against Paris Saint-Germain in the group stage last season. Barcelona confidently declared themselves the strongest team in Europe, but then were convincingly defeated by the defending champion.
It is undeniable the quality of the squad under Flick. The fact that they are approaching the La Liga championship is the clearest proof. However, the problem lies in the fighting spirit. Cubarsi's red card against Atletico Madrid is the fifth time Barca has received a red card in the last two seasons - a sign of worrying lack of control.
More importantly, Barca often tends to find external reasons instead of looking back at themselves. Consecutive defeats in the Champions League come not only from objective factors, but also from the tactical operation, especially Flick's rising defense.
However, the opportunity for Barcelona to prove their strength is still ahead. The second leg at Metropolitano will be a big test. Reversing the 0-2 defeat to Atletico would be a miracle, but Barca players believe they can do it. Ferran Torres even announced a comeback after the victory over Espanyol.
However, it is time for Barcelona to prove it with actions instead of words. Fans no longer want to hear strong statements, but need to see a performance of sufficient stature. In Madrid, Yamal and his teammates will have the opportunity to give the clearest answer - on the pitch, not outside the media.
