Totti: Barca are great - but we can do well

The two sides were the first two clubs pulled out of the hat during Friday's draw, with the first leg scheduled for the Camp Nou on Wednesday April 4.

“We’re content, especially because we are among the eight best sides in Europe – and facing Real Madrid or Manchester City would be just the same,” Totti said.

“We will confront Barcelona with the same calmness and focus we have done so far.

“They are one of the best sides in Europe but even so we are convinced we can do well.”

Totti dismissed suggestions the draw could have been better for the GIallorossi.

“Sevilla and Liverpool might have looked a kinder draw on paper, but on the pitch everything can change,” he noted. “We will face a top side, which they absolutely are, but be clear that they will also be worried about us.

“I read in a Spanish newspaper that they would love to draw Roma. We will play our game and see how Roma can fare against Barcelona. Everyone expects them to go through but they will come up against a determined group.”

The Roma legend hinted that the lack of expectations could aid Eusebio Di Francesco’s side.

“Football is great because anything can happen,” he pointed out. “We are facing one of the best sides in Europe, but to win this competition you have to face everyone and anyone to get to the final. Playing against guys like Messi, Suarez and Pique will be a motivation for us to do our best.

“We finished first in a difficult group, ahead of Chelsea and Atletico Madrid. We then faced Shakhtar on a level playing field and acquitted ourselves well. The side that faces us will be made to work.”