Barça are better than Real Madrid, says Raphinha after Inter Miami goal
After scoring in his first appearance for Barcelona, Raphinha sent a message to Real Madrid ahead of this weekend’s Clásico in Las Vegas.
Raphinha seems intent on establishing himself as a Barcelona fan favourite. Not only with his on-field performances - he impressed in his first appearance for the club on Tuesday - but also with his statements.
Speaking after scoring once and supplying two assists in Barça’s 6-0 win over Inter Miami, the winger sent a clear message to arch rivals Real Madrid, the Blaugrana’s next opponents on their US tour.
Raphinha’s post-match comments:
How did you feel about your first appearance for Barcelona?
I’m very happy to have scored my first goal for the club and that things went so well. I felt really good out there. I hope I can continue like this.
You looked right at home…
My abilities are ideally suited to playing out on the wing. That’s why I felt so comfortable.
Are you already thinking about the World Cup?
My dream is to go to Qatar with Brazil. I hope I can keep on growing in confidence and achieve that goal.
Now you’ll be out to add to your goal tally when Barça face Real Madrid...
Of course. Scoring always gives you confidence and if you can do it against a team like Real Madrid, all the more so. For me, we’re a better side than Madrid.
What’s it like playing with these quality players?
Playing at Barça is very easy. They are all very good.
Six different scorers in Inter Miami thrashing
At DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Raphinha set up first-half goals for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Ansu Fati, either side of a 25th-minute volley from the Brazilian, who beat goalkeeper Nick Marsman after connecting with Álex Balde’s left-wing cross.
After the break, Gavi, Memphis Depay and Ousmane Dembélé then completed the rout.
Las Vegas Clásico: when and where?
In their second fixture of the preseason period, Barcelona take on Real Madrid at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, on Saturday 23 July at 9pm PT (midnight ET).
Television viewers in the United States will be able to watch the game on Fox Sports. If you’re looking to stream the Clásico online in the US, you’ll be able to do so on FoxSports.com and the Fox Sports App.