FC Barcelona centre-half Ronald Araujo cut a frustrated figure following the 'Blaugrana's 0-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg. Despite the setback, the defender remained defiant, insisting: "If any team can overturn this, it's us."

"We gave our all, but it just wasn't enough. In the second half, we showed real character despite being a man down. We dominated possession but lacked that clinical edge. We are hurting from the loss, but we're ready to fight for the comeback," he told 'Movistar+'.

The Uruguayan international was reluctant to dwell on Cubarsi's straight red card in the 44th minute. "I haven't seen the replay yet. I’ve been told it was harsh, one of those that could go either way. Regardless, this team has the spirit to turn this around; I’m certain of that."

Araujo doubled down on FC Barcelona's chances of a comeback: "We’ve pulled off miracles before. It’s a difficult place to go, but if anyone can do it, it’s this group. We have top-tier quality and the personality required. We are going there for the comeback."

The Uruguayan conceded that Cubarsi's dismissal was a turning point for a side that, until then, "had controlled the ball, created openings, and looked likely to score."

"You cannot fault the effort; we pushed until the final whistle, but the result didn't go our way," Araujo added. He also noted that "fatigue began to set in" during the closing stages, citing the grueling fixture list at this point in the campaign.

Speaking later in the mixed zone, Araujo addressed the contentious handball involving Marc Pubill after a pass from Musso. "I’m not looking for excuses, but the Pubill incident was a blatant penalty. It was absurd, but a clear foul," he concluded.

Marc Pubill

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