Glasgow City FC, the only Scottish side to reach the last 16 of the Champions League in 2018, host FC Barcelona this Thursday at Petershill Park.
It’s unlikely for City to progress to the next round after a 5-0 defeat in the first leg at the Miniestadi but the 2018 league champions will be hoping to put in a strong showing in what could be their last match of the season.
One of their standout performers this year has been 16-year-old defender, Carly Girasoli. Called upon due to injuries in the league, Scott Booth has continued to utilise the youngster in all competitions. This has in vital matches in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Speaking from Lourdes Secondary, where she is a fifth year pupil, Girasoli said: “I was dead nervous (ahead of my first game) but I was excited to come on and play. It’s really good for Scott to have faith in me, to support me and help me through each game.
“It’s a dream really. I take it each game at a time and I don’t think ahead too far just yet.”
Scott Booth has spoken previously about the blend of players that City have in the first-team squad, mixing experience with youth. With players like Leanne Ross, Jo Love, and Leanne Crichton, Girasoli believes this has been a huge benefit.
“It really does help” she said. “Some of them have been at the club for a number of years and they’ve all been playing at a top level for a long time.
“They help me through it. When I’m playing with them, they tell me what to do because I’m not doing everything fully right.”
Despite a tough defeat in the first leg, Girasoli knows it was a beneficial experience for the squad and as an individual.
“It was really hard” she said. “We’re not used to that tempo in the league or in any game so far this season. We adapted well but there’s nothing you can do when you’re playing such great opposition.
“There’s nothing to lose now. Barcelona are such an amazing team and they move the ball around so quickly but as a team we can do better and try and limit the number of goals.”
Limited tickets for Thursday’s game will be available on the gate, priced at £10 for adults and £5 for U16’s. The game will also be broadcast live on BBC ALBA.
Further information can be found on the Glasgow City website (http://www.glasgowcityfc.co.uk/latest/) and via their social media channels.
