“We could have scored from two clear goal opportunities in the first half, even though they also had several chances. If we can score in the second leg, then a draw will secure us a win,” affirms Pellegrini. “Beginning a two-match tie at home always increases tension, and the need to focus on the attack and score. However we didn’t concede any goals tonight, meaning Borussia now have that problem. The result is absolutely wide open,” states the Málaga coach, who confirmed that both Málaga CF and Borussia perform equally well in home and away games.
Manuel Pellegrini went on to say: “It was a great match tonight, with impressive action by both teams. We knew we were up against a tough team, who has scored numerous goals in past Champions League matches, so we had to focus on playing a very balanced game. In next week’s match, Borussia will be concentrating on making sure we don’t get an away goal. It was difficult playing at home in the first leg against such a strong attack, but it was crucial that we didn’t concede any goals, and we maintained an intense game play throughout, not just in defence, but upfront aswell. In the return leg we’ll hopefully be able to create enough space in order to score and get through to the semi-finals.”
Taking into account that up until now, Borussia have scored in all of their Champions League matches, Pellegrini continues: “We’ve always scored in all our Champions matches too, apart from the first leg against Porto. Our defence is very tight, although I think it’s of some concern that Weligton and Iturra won’t be playing in the second leg.”