The ‘Malaguista’ coach believes that the last 16 match won’t be decided during the first leg in Porto tomorrow at 8:45 p.m. “I don’t think there’ll be any surprises tomorrow, although a lot can happen in 180 minutes. We’re up against a very strong team, but we’ve also shown that we’re more than capable of continuing on in the Champions League. Anything can happen in football, but I think this tie will be decided in Málaga.”
Málaga are facing Portuguese league-leaders, Porto, currently with 49 points and suffering just one defeat during the Champions League group stage. Pellegrini believes that “Porto have some very good players, they tend to concentrate on the attack and are always determined for victory. They have international-level players and many strong points.” The Chilean-born coach also stated that Porto have shown their capability both in the Champions and UEFA, and are a contender for any League competition.
From a sporting point of view, up until now the only member of the team unable to take part is Eliseu, who didn’t recover from the sprained medial ligament in his left knee in time. Jesús Gámez’s recovery time, following problems with his soleus muscle, has been extended until tomorrow.
With regards to the fans that have travelled to Porto, “They’re always there supporting the team, and the best gift we can give them is playing fantastic football in this Champions League match,” affirms the Málaga coach, who states the teams’ intention is to return to Málaga with a good result.
The Málaga coach is certain that “The team will never speculate on the result, and would never change the usual style of play”, and is sure they will put on a great show.
Duda
Málaga CF’s Portuguese-born Duda returns to his home country to face Porto in the Champions League, something the Blue and Whites wouldn’t have dreamt about a few years ago. “Looking back over the last few seasons, we’d never have thought we’d be facing Porto in the last 16 of the Champions League. We’ve achieved so much over the past three years. It’s very special for me to come home and take part in such an important match for the Club and the city, and we really hope to come home with a great result,” states the ‘Malaguista’ player.
Despite recent problems with his calf muscle, Duda is certain he’s match-fit for tomorrow, and available should he be chosen by Manuel Pellegrini. “We’ll need to play excellent football tomorrow against the Portuguese-league champions in the last 16 of the Champions League.”