Joao Cancelo backs Barcelona to recover after Real Madrid defeat

Barcelona defender Joao Cancelo has urged his team-mates to remain confident and promised a strong response after their 2-1 home defeat by Real Madrid in El Clasico.

The result, in a match surrounded by considerable controversy, reduced Barcelona’s lead over their traditional rivals in the La Liga title race to three points.

Cancelo said self-belief would be essential as Barcelona attempt to recover from the setback.

“We have to keep our confidence because that is part of being professional footballers and part of the profession we have chosen,” the Portugal international said.

The defender also addressed the intense scrutiny faced by Barcelona’s players, whose fortunes can prompt sharply contrasting reactions from supporters and the media.

“We know very well the level of pressure we face,” Cancelo added. “When we lose, we are criticised, and when we win, everyone treats us as if we are gods. But that is football, and we have to deal with it.”

Despite the defeat, Cancelo insisted the atmosphere within the Barcelona dressing room remained united. He said the squad was continuing to work hard in training as it sought to correct its recent shortcomings.

“Me and all my team-mates work very hard every day, and there is a very high level of quality in training,” he said.

Cancelo ended his comments by reassuring Barcelona supporters that the team would try to make amends and return to winning ways in its next match.

“Therefore, I am completely confident that we will show a strong reaction and try to win the next game,” he said.