Match analysis
“I want to talk about the performance our team delivered, because it wasn’t easy. Coming off a defeat, we managed not to lose our identity, showing belief in what we want to do and staying true to that approach. We played a beautiful first half, although we didn’t convert our chances. In the second half, we kept pushing until we scored. We maintained our identity throughout, and it’s also worth acknowledging that we saw a strong performance from Albacete. It was a very complete match, when you go ahead, the opponent pushes back, but we stayed firm and were deserved winners of the game.”
Strong attacking display
“Albacete had kept 11 clean sheets, which clearly reflects how difficult it is to score against them. We registered 15 shots and entered the box 50 times, that deserves great credit. The team showed a lot of energy and bravery; we were able to play the ball inside and switch it wide, and the wings were very sharp. We could have sealed the result with another goal. The team looked very solid throughout the entire match. In such a demanding league, where it’s hard to make a difference, today we did exactly that.”
A victory of excitement and hope
“It's a win that has filled everyone with excitement and hope. I want to thank the fans, because what they do speaks for itself. Today we also wanted to dedicate the victory to Víctor and to Dorrio. This result strengthens us greatly because of what it means for others, and today the players were very generous.”
Additional notes on the match
“Even though we misplaced four or five passes, the team’s performance in possession was at a very high level and our ball circulation was excellent. We showed patience when playing in the opponent’s half and controlled the match. Our counter-pressing was outstanding. Mistakes can happen, but we react quickly to win the ball back. The level of our pressing after losing possession was exceptional.”
Changes
“With Dorrio, towards the end of the match, we were going to switch to playing with two forwards instead of one. The effort he had made and the feeling towards him had an impact on the team. Einar felt some discomfort and, as a precaution, we decided to take him off. Javi has played two good matches, and Einar had been on a very positive run. It was one of the toughest decisions of the week, and circumstances meant that, in the end, both of them played.”
Assessment of the refereeing
“The fact that we don’t have to talk about the referee says a lot about how well he did. The match didn’t feature situations in which his decisions were decisive. It was a good performance by the referee. The supporters’ section showed its disagreement in a creative and respectful way. Today, the most important thing is that we played a great match, and that’s what we should enjoy.”
