While the players focused on the referee, the statistics told a story of missed opportunities and defensive fragility, as Barcelona became the first Spanish side in history to go 15 consecutive Champions League games without a clean sheet. Despite boasting a superior xG and more shots on target, Barca could not overcome their first-leg deficit.
Reflecting on the performance and the need for growth, Flick remarked: "We played a fantastic first half tonight. We had to score more goals. Of course it was possible [to score more]. When you see both matches, we deserve to be in the semifinal. But we have to accept it. The mentality, the attitude the players show on the pitch, I am proud about that."
He added: "The next step is to win LaLiga. We are on the way. It's not done yet. We have more games and we have to do like this today. Of course we are disappointed right now. It's normal. It's a big dream to win the Champions League. We have to learn about the things we have to improve, but we have a young team and they can and will improve next season. I know it's disappointing for everyone; I am also disappointed. It's football, it's life. We have to come back."