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Barcelona debutant Jeison Murillo sure of Copa del Rey progress despite Levante reversal

Press Association Sport

09:39 11/01/2019

Jeison Murillo is taking heart from Philippe Coutinho’s late goal after Barcelona were stunned 2-1 by Levante in the first leg of their Copa del Rey tie.

The defending champions were heading for a convincing defeat following early goals from Erick Cabaco and Borja Mayoral, who is on loan from Barca’s rivals Real Madrid.

But Coutinho gave them hope of turning the round-of-16 tie around at Camp Nou next week with a 85th-minute penalty after substitute Denis Suarez, a reported Arsenal target, was upended by Coke.

And debutant Murillo is hoping Barca, without Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez on the night, can build on Coutinho’s strike in the second leg.

“The result is not the best,” Murillo was quoted as saying by Marca.

“We have to take advantage of Coutinho’s goal at home.”

Defender Murillo was making his debut for Barca after joining on loan from La Liga rivals Valencia last month.

The Colombian was disappointed to taste defeat on his bow, but is working hard to impress boss Ernesto Valverde.

“It’s a bittersweet night,” he added.

“I’ve tried to fit into the group. I’m taking things positively. The coach keeps asking me to work.”

Provided by Press Association Sport

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