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First team
Pellegrini: “We definitely stepped up at certain points in the match when we knew we needed to”

Málaga CF coach, Manuel Pellegrini, held a press conference at the Petrovsky Stadium following the Champions League encounter against FC Zenit. Buonanotte, Seba Fernández and Santa Cruz spoke to MCF TV in the mixed zone.

Pellegrini
 
“Luckily we came away with the point we needed in order to secure the top spot in the group.  It was definitely a game of two halves; we were the superior side during the first 45 minutes both in terms of game play and on the score board, whereas Zenit really tried to take the reigns of the game in the second half and levelled out the scoring.”
 
“It was very important for me, as it definitely wasn’t easy coming here, playing against a strong Zenit side, without some of our key players, Joaquín, Isco, Saviola, Monreal, Sergio Sánchez, Baptista and Weligton.  Despite the absence of these strong players, the team performed well throughout the match.  I’ve still got my doubts about Zenit’s second goal, but all in all, the standard of football was very high.”

“We worked hard to get the two goals so early on in the match, against a rival intent on maintaining possession.  We had another three clear chances to score, and I still have serious doubts about Zenit’s second goal.  We definitely stepped up at certain points in the match when we knew we needed to.”

 
Buonanotte
 
“After scoring in the first half, we were determined to maintain the lead, and our defence was tight.  However in the second half, Zenit really increased their attacking display, which we knew would be the case after the first 45 minutes.  They scored a goal early on in the second half which caused us a few problems, although we created further opportunities to score.  Coming home with a draw is a great result for us as we were looking to achieve first place in the group, and we have.”


Seba
 
“We started well, and to be named man of the match is an honour!  I know it’s of no real importance, but I’m very pleased!”
 
“Having secured the top spot, we hope we’re the stronger team against our rival in the next round of the competition.  However we’re now focused on the League match against Valencia on Saturday who are a strong team, and continue in our quest to secure Champions positions for next season.”
 
 
Santa Cruz
 
“The fact that we’ve got through to the next stage of the Champions League with a match still left to play really shows the strong motivation and determination of the team.  Although we were already qualified, we still went out there to win.”