"I was not surprised by Schalke's strong start," said Rijkaard. "I said before the game that they were a strong team and that it would be difficult to beat them. The important thing was that we handled their attacking threat and were able to score ourselves.
"We worked hard to get ourselves in front. I am happy with the effort of the players.
"I don't agree we only worked harder after halftime. That's just your (journalist's) opinion. Yes, we were physically stronger than Schalke in the second-half, but that's just what happens in games."
Asked if he is confident facing Manchester United after last night's scratchy performance, Rijkaard added: "Barca is a team that has great quality. It is always possible to play better."
Meanwhile, Xavi said: "They were stronger than us in the first-half. We were a little nervous. But the important thing is that we're into the semifinals."
