Brazilian star Philippe Coutinho scored his first goal for FC Barcelona in their 2-0 win against Valencia in the Copa del Rey on Thursday – here is what he had to say about his strike.

Click through the mini-gallery above to see pictures of Coutinho scoring his first FC Barcelona goal

The 25-year-old, who started the game on the bench, found the back of the net in the 49th minute after coming on as a half-time substitute for Andre Gomes.

After the match, the Brazilian told members of the media that he had been hoping to score a goal a lot sooner, and is delighted that it finally came in an important game.

"It's a very happy day," Coutinho told GOL after the match.

"I was looking for the goal in the first few games and today I got it and, most importantly, helped the team reach the final.

"It's a special moment. It'll be a great game and a difficult one (against Sevilla in the final). We have time to prepare ourselves.

"It's my first final and it's a special and important moment for me, but there are a lot of moments to play before the final."

Coutinho & Rakitic Send Barca To Copa Final

Coutinho has made five appearances for Barcelona so far this season, scoring once. 

What did you think of Coutinho's first goal for the Blaugrana? Have your say in the comments section below.