Roura: Paris Saint-Germain will be a tough test for Barcelona

Mar 16, 2013 6:00:00 PM

The stand-in Blaugrana boss believes the big-spending Ligue 1 side will provide stern opposition in their European tie

Jordi Roura says Barcelona are expecting a tough examination when they face Paris Saint-Germain in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Blaugrana were drawn alongside Carlo Ancelotti's side on Friday after recording a stunning 4-0 win over AC Milan to book their place in the last eight.

And though many have been quick to suggest the tie will be a one-sided affair, the assistant coach has been quick to note PSG's expensive rebuilding process and the quality at their disposal.

"I know people say we are favourites but they also said that about Milan. At this stage all the ties are really tough," he told reporters at a press conference.

The Catalans resume domestic action on Sunday when they host Rayo Vallecano and despite boasting a healthy 13-point gap at the top of La Liga, Roura is urging his players to remain focused.

He added: “It’s very important and especially complicated. We’ve just had a very intense game which was a huge psychological and physical effort. After such a big boost we have to guard against a drop in our intensity. We have to be very careful.”

Back-to-back Clasico defeats to Real Madrid and a 2-0 loss to AC Milan saw Barca come under scrutiny over their alarming dip in form, but the 45-year-old says he never once lost faith in his players.

“If there’s anyone who has always had faith in the team it was me. I’ve always said that they react very well to adversity. I’ve never had any doubts. The players know what they have to do and they’ll keep on doing it.

"The commitment of the squad is unquestionable."

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