Xavi says it is do or die against Bayern Munich

Barça face a crucial fixture in Germany and the coach and squad are all too aware. It will not be easy to beat Bayern Munich away from home but there is a quiet confidence about the team. Coach Xavi Hernández in the pre-game press conference in Bavaria, like Gerard Piqué, stressed the squad's optimistic approach. "We are really excited and looking forward to competing with what we have," said the new boss, before admitting it will also be "tough". 

"It's a decisive game for us and we have our own fate in our own hands. If we win, we are through. History tells us that we have not won in Munich but now we have a chance to break that run. We have a great chance to rewrite history with our first win there and we are looking forward to that." 

For Xavi, even though it is "not the best place we could find ourselves in," the key will be to "go out with confidence, try to dominate by having the ball and attack. We have to defend as a team and try to keep Lewandowski out of the area because that's where he is decisive." 

More from Xavi's press conference: 

Forgetting recent results

"Depending on how it goes, we will see if there is a miracle or not. After the game we will talk about how we have done and if Bayern have caused us problems. I don't see it as a miracle as it's just one game and Barça can beat anyone." 

"We are ready to compete. I hope the recent defeats do not affect us mentally. We have a tough task and only a win will do." 

On the team's form 

“We are working towards Barça not being inferior to anyone in Europe. There is a lot of work ahead of us and we have to be patient. The reality is that tomorrow we have a chance to compete against a Bayern side who have hurt us in recent years." 

Optimistic about Jordi Alba

“Jordi has slight problem but it seems he will be ok. It will depend how he feels. He is motived and committed. Now, I am optimistic and I think he will be able to play." 

Playing behind closed doors 

"It is a shame that the fans can't be there. We play for them and it will be a cold game. I don't any advantage for us, honestly. Bayern are not playing for anything but perhaps there will be players who want to prove something to their coach."