Kika Nazareth must overcome mental demons and think positively

Portuguese forward sidelined for weeks with quadriceps strain; reflects on struggles to showcase her talent at Barcelona despite strong recent performance.

Kika Nazareth has suffered a quadriceps muscle injury that will keep her out for several weeks. The Barcelona Women forward's last appearance came in the Champions League against Danish champions, where she came off the bench to score in an 8-0 rout and nearly added a spectacular bicycle kick that hit the crossbar.

In an interview with Catalunya Ràdio after the match, Nazareth spoke candidly about her frustrations at Barcelona. Now in her third season at the club, the Portuguese player expressed frustration that she has been unable to demonstrate her full talent and ability since arriving. She was particularly harsh on herself over a poor pass during a clear counterattack she was leading, saying she would have gained confidence had the bicycle kick gone in.

Nazareth acknowledged a mental struggle: her focus on mistakes prevents her from building confidence, which in turn affects her performances and bid for regular starting status. She suggested that shifting her mindset to reflect on the five positive actions she makes each match, rather than dwelling on errors, could help unlock the form that saw her score 82 goals for Benfica.