Madrid: Spanish third-tier minnows Villanovense enjoyed the most famous night of their history as they held an under-strength Barcelona 0-0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey tie on Wednesday.
Villanovense play at the same level as Barca's B team in the regional Second Division B, but they more than held their own in a game of very few chances and came closest to scoring just before half-time when Victor Calatrava's flick flew inches over the bar.
The sides will meet again for the right to reach the last 16 at the Camp Nou on December 2.
"I think we had the right attitude and I am satisfied with what I saw," said Barca boss Luis Enrique.
"I expected to win the game, that is what we came here to do. We had some chances, although they weren't clear-cut.
"The result is what it is and now we have the second leg still to play."
Villanovense captain Angel Pazuelo had to fight back tears of pride as he hailed his side's defiance against the European champions.
"I don't think you noticed the difference between the Primera and Segunda B. We gave everything," he told Canal Plus.
"It is a dream come true to play against the best club in the world at this moment. We are very happy.
"The objective isn't accomplished because we want to play a good game in Barcelona."
Enrique made nine changes to the side that beat Eibar 3-1 at the weekend with Marc Bartra and Sandro Ramirez the only two players to keep their places.
Indeed, five Barca players were making their first start of the season, including Cameroonian midfielder Wilfrid Kaptoum, who made his first-team debut.
And goalkeeper Jordi Masip said the result was more the fruit of brave Villanovense defending than a missed opportunity for Barca's youngsters to make their case for more playing time.
AFP
