The Barça striker expressed satisfaction with Barça's march into the Champions League quarter-finals.

 

FC Barcelona forward Lionel Messi was elated after reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the eighth consecutive year: "We’re back at a high level and we have to keep it going as long as possible." Messi said that although the team feels prepared for Sunday's game against Real Madrid, they will be a dangerous opponent: "We have a lot of respect for this game. They’re never in bad shape; they’re still dangerous, with impressive individual players and we need to respect more than ever … They are very strong and we have to play our game and, with the help of our fans, try to overcome them.”

Messi also praised Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart: "He was phenomenal, he stopped everything. We have to congratulate him on a great game because he’s a fantastic goalkeeper.” Messi also thanked the fans: "It's very nice to see how the people show their support during the game."

Here are the highlights from what some of the other players had to say:

Marc-André ter Stegen

"Taking risks is the way I play. The most important thing is we didn’t let in any goals.”

“Mascherano and Rafinha both told me to which side Agüero was going to shoot. One said left, the other said right. In the end, I just guessed, but I’m happy they tried to help.”

Andrés Iniesta

“It’s a shame I wasn’t so precise tonight.”

“Hart was key to keeping them in it and was great in one-on-one situations. Outstanding.”

“We’ve played lots of different Clásicos. It’s doesn’t matter how a team is playing going into it, and I’m not saying I think Madrid are off their game right now.” 

“We’ll have to be at the top of our game.” 

“There aren’t a lot of games left and all the little things really count. If we do our job on Sunday, it should be a great day.”