Riqui Puig says he was ‘desperate’ to take Barcelona penalty

Riqui Puig was the match winner for Barcelona on Wednesday, netting the decisive penalty to send his team into the final of the Spanish Super Cup.

It was a great moment for the youngster who was endured a frustrating season under Ronald Koeman but has been rewarded for his patience.

Puig showed great composure to send the goalkeeper the wrong way and score his spot-kick and spoke after the game about how eager he was to take a penalty.

“I wasn’t down to take one but we needed one more taker and I was the first to step forward. I was desperate to take it and score my first goal for the club.

“I have never lost my smile. I am a happy kid. Even if I am not playing, I have my family, my health. If Ronald gives me minutes, I will try and take my chance; if not, keep working hard. I am never going to throw in the towel.”

Source | ESPN

Puig, Miralem Pjanic and Ousmane Dembele were all successful with their kicks, while Frenkie de Jong hit a post with his and Antoine Griezmann blazed an effort over the bar.

Barca also needed goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s help. The German followed up an impressive 120 minutes with two saves in the shoot-out to help secure the win.