Osasuna manager Vicente Moreno is confident ahead of his team’s clash against Barcelona on March 8 at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Despite acknowledging the challenge, he made it clear that Osasuna are coming to win.

When asked about the possibility of repeating their 4-2 victory from the first half of the season at El Sadar, Moreno took the opportunity to highlight Barcelona winger Raphinha’s quality. “Raphinha is undervalued. I see him as one of the best in the world, influencing both offensive and defensive play, and his individual and team work is top-tier,” he said.

At the same time, Moreno admitted he would prefer Barcelona to rest their key players, even joking about it: “Sometimes we say we want to play against the best, but I’d prefer none of them play.”

Regarding the result, the Osasuna boss made his ambitions clear, while acknowledging the challenge. “It’s difficult for me to settle for a draw. We’ve had too many already. Of course, a draw against Barcelona could be good for most people, but we want to win. If we can’t, a draw is fine.”

Osasuna will be without goalkeeper Aitor Fernandez and Aitor Oroz due to injuries, which could make their task even harder. Meanwhile, Moreno acknowledged Barcelona’s impressive form, referencing their dominant displays this season. “They won 5-0 against Madrid and 6-0 against Valencia,” he noted.

Barcelona will be looking to avoid another upset and continue their strong run of results, but Osasuna are coming with confidence and belief.