Pellegrini: “I’m pleased with our performance tonight”
Málaga CF coach, Manuel Pellegrini, held a press conference at La Rosaleda after tonight’s match. Portillo, Iturra and Duda appeared in the mixed zone for MCF TV.
Pellegrini
“Unfortunately our rival equalised in the last two minutes, which also occurred in the Zenit match tonight. We had a great number of goal chances and showed an excellent attacking display and a great performance by Kameni. It was disappointing when they scored the equaliser, but all in all, we played very good football tonight.”
“We had a lot more chances to score than Anderlecht, even though they had two excellent opportunities in the first half that were saved by Kameni. I’m pleased with the individual performance on the attack however I think we needed to be stronger at the back. It was a fair draw, although we can’t help feeling disappointed with the last-minute goal.”
“We had the right attitude and conviction in every match in the group stage, regardless of the rival. Since the very first match against Zenit, we showed our determination to qualify. We proved ourselves again in Belgium, scoring nine points out of nine. We finished with three draws, but I think we always had the advantage and determination to win.”
“Toulalan suffered a muscular injury, although we won’t know how bad it is until tomorrow. Camacho really needed to rest as he’s been playing a lot, but an injury can strike any player at any time.”
“I really don’t think it matters who we’re up against in the next round. Whoever it is, it’ll be tough. We’re talking about the 16 best teams in Europe. The most important thing is that we maintain a high performance level in February, with the determination and motivation to reach the next round.”
Portillo
“It’s a shame Anderlecht equalised just before the whistle, but we’re very proud of what we’ve achieved in the group stage. The important thing is that we finished in first place in the group. We’re now concentrating on the League and awaiting the Champions League draw.”
Iturra
“I think we’re all a bit disappointed that the game ended in a draw, as we played really well tonight. A win would have been the icing on the cake both for us and the fans.”
Duda
“From a personal point of view, I don’t think I could have played better, but as I always say, it’s a question of our performance as a team which is important.”