Firstly, congratulations to Monaco on going through. They were the better team overall, they showed more desire unfortunately, and they deserve it. They have the ability to cause many team, big teams, lots of problems and probably are not a bad outside bet to snatch it. It is at least something to be able to say well done without having to moan about a bad refereeing decision or controversial moment.
Secondly, that first half did it for us. We've gone so close to going through, 6-6 against a very attacking, very talented, Monaco side, that to release we probably missed out because of an inept 45 minute spell is hard to take. I was very disappointed to hear Pep's comments that the team didn't believe him about attacking, because that is precisely what has cost us. Not a single shot in the first half... Easy to say now that Yaya and Zaba should have started, and maybe they should have (we certainly got done on physical presence, could have done with more ball retention ability and looked to Sane and Raz with direct balls for relief), but this was about attitude and commitment and we were not with it from the first whistle. Which is a surprise as Monaco's goals and plan were very clear from before kick off, we should have been expecting it.
Where from here? Well, we've not actually lost anything, other than a game over two legs. We were very unlikely to have been able to win it this year. This team is not a true Pep team yet, a few different players and more time are needed, so I would expect next year that the QF is the minimum expectation. Which obviously means a top 4 finish, and preferably a cup too, are now the targets for us. Can't call that a disaster, but definitely something to build on for next season. Second half showed we can compete, but overall last night also highlighted for me why we have struggled for several seasons in this competition - call it attitude, game management, consistency, I don't know but it needs addressing, as I am sure it will be under Pep.
The immediate issue is to make sure it does not affect our next game. We must not get beat at Liverpool. A draw I can take, but a loss gives them confidence and drags us back into the fight for fourth instead of opening up some daylight.
