Rijkaard revels in Champions League victory as coach appreciates support from fans.


Speaking in his post-match comments after the 3-0 defeat of Olympique Lyon at Camp Nou, FC Barcelona's coach Frank Rijkaard has expressed happiness over the turn of events for the Catalan giants and the outstanding performance by his team of super stars. The Dutchman, who had earlier appealed for patience, understanding and support from Barca fans and friends alike, also went ahead before the match, to ban further references to the past errors committed by the Blaugrana, which has led to some not so impressive results and outcomes. Frank Rijkaard hoped to use the Champions League against Lyon to usher in a new era of positivity and winning at FC Barcelona. Visibly glad, Rijkaard said:

This is a fine night for us. We scored three goals, we reached our objective, the team played well and the fans supported us. We're happy with the result but we have to continue working. I have to congratulate my players. All three goals made me happy and the second goal was important to guarantee the win. The team played well with the crowd behind them and that's what we need at the moment in the league and Champions League. Football is about team work so I congratulate everyone.

Explaining the substitution of Ronaldinho with Andres Iniesta in the second half, Frank Rijkaard was understanding of the Brazilian striker's desire to remain on the pitch, but was also mindful of securing the entire team, believing that many more matches lay ahead for all the players to enjoy:

A sportsman always wants to play so it was normal for Ronaldinho to be a bit upset at being substituted but he played well. He's an important player for us and there are plenty of matches ahead. I like seeing things positively so despite some supporters booing him, most of them applauded him and that's what I value.

The Barca coach has some nice words of praise for his French opponents, assessing Lyon as a great team but also admitting Barca's superiority:

Lyon are great opponents but we played maturely. They're a quality team and the difference between a goal and a chance is huge so I'm glad we didn't concede any tonight.

Rijkaard was clearly happy after each goal was scored, as the Dutchman impulsively jumped from his seat after the very first goal when Messi's cutting dribble and low cross ended up in the Lyonnaise net in the 21st minute.

Barca will now play FC Sevilla on Saturday in the week four La Liga encounter. Sevilla went down with the same 3-0 score margin against Arsenal FC in London, England.