Jules Kounde had an evening to neglect in opposition to Celta Vigo, the place his efficiency grew to become a focus in Barcelona’s 2-2 draw.
Whereas the crew struggled collectively, the French defender’s expensive mistake stood out as a pivotal second within the match. Barcelona, already diminished to 10 males following Marc Casado’s dismissal, noticed their slim lead vanish straight away.
Kounde’s essential error within the 84th minute opened the door for Celta to stage a late comeback, leaving the Catalan facet annoyed and trying to find solutions.
The Frenchman discovered himself underneath scrutiny after this outing. His lapse in focus throughout key moments of the match proved decisive.
“We weren’t concerned in the course of the recreation, which was what was required. I’m the primary to say that I didn’t play a great recreation,” admitted the defender.
For Celta’s first purpose, Kounde was caught out of place, failing to take care of the defensive solidity anticipated from a participant of his calibre.
This error not solely gifted Celta an opportunity to equalise but additionally destabilised Barcelona’s defensive construction within the closing minutes.
“I lacked focus and in the long run, you pay dearly for it with a gross error that you just can’t permit. I settle for this error which places us in a tough state of affairs,” he stated.
Kounde’s admission
Kounde’s efficiency wasn’t restricted to this single mistake; it mirrored a broader battle all through the match.
On one other important play main as much as the purpose, the defender hesitated, anticipating the referee to name offside, as an alternative of continuous his defensive duties.
“In the long run, I noticed it clearly and I ended, however that displays a little bit of what I stated. I lacked focus as a result of even when I noticed clearly that the ball had gone out, I needed to proceed.”
This lack of focus proved expensive, demonstrating the significance of taking part in to the whistle no matter perceived circumstances.
“Immediately I used to be not concerned, I settle for that, however you possibly can’t surrender both. We tied the sport partly due to me,” he stated.
Studying curve
Regardless of the frustration, Kounde confirmed accountability for his efficiency. Recognising his position within the crew’s struggles, he acknowledged the necessity to be taught from these experiences.
Barcelona’s latest matches have uncovered vulnerabilities, with the crew failing to ship their traditional excessive requirements. Nonetheless, setbacks like these can function a chance for progress.
“It’s a studying expertise for everybody, perhaps it’s been a bit simple for us. We haven’t performed effectively within the final two video games, however that is a part of the season. Now’s after we’ll see if we’re a crew or not,” he concluded.
Supply: Mundo Deportivo