Yamal relishing responsibility of leading Barcelona's Champions League comeback

Lamine Yamal insisted Barcelona's hopes of reaching the Champions League semi-final does not all depend on him, but the winger is happy to take responsibility against Atletico Madrid.

Barca lost their last-eight first leg 2-0 at Camp Nou last week, with Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth getting on the scoresheet following a red card to Pau Cubarsi.

The Blaugrana's 2-0 defeat to Atleti was the 195th time in European Cup/Champions League history a team has lost the first leg of a knockout stage tie at home by 2+ goals.

Only two of the previous 194 have progressed to the next round – Manchester United against Paris Saint-Germain in 2018-19 and Ajax against Benfica in 1968-69.

Yamal leads all Barcelona players for successful dribbles (37) and total shots (32) in UEFA's flagship competition this season.

Meanwhile, no player has created more chances for the club than the 18-year-old (20), while only Fermin Lopez (10) has been involved in more goals (nine – five goals, four assists).

The teenager praised the ability of his team-mates, but insisted he is unfazed by the pressure placed on his shoulders.

"Luckily, I'm playing for Barcelona and we have a lot of quality," said Yamal.

"I don't think it all depends on me, and even if it did, I wouldn't mind. But I have faith in my team.

"From a young age, I've taken on more responsibilities than I should have. I'm used to it. I don't see it as a problem, but as a strength. I appreciate the trust my colleagues place in me."

Barca have come under criticism for their style of play this season, with their high line indirectly leading to Cubarsi's dismissal last week.

Hansi Flick, however, does not believe his tactics make things easier for Atleti.

"I'm not worried; it's our style of play," said the Barca head coach.

"We can defend better, but it all depends on the team. Everyone on the team needs to be involved and connected, and defend as a unit.

"Without the ball, we have to close down space and be more compact; that's how we want to play football.

"There are many situations where we've done very well. And we're capable of scoring goals."