Statements from Manuel Pellegrini:
“It’s always good not to concede a goal, but we were just focused on winning this away match, which we did.  It was an important game for us as we’re now right on track in this competition.  We’ve got a tight schedule of matches at the moment, and the team played really well tonight.  It was a tough pitch to get used to, as the heavy rainfall had left it really muddy, but the boys overcame the problem and won the match.  I decided to take Jurado off at half-time as he was suffering from flu-like symptoms, and he wasn’t fit to continue.”
 

Statements from Roque Santa Cruz:
“We knew it’d be a difficult match, as we were aware of the high expectations, though I think both teams ended up enjoying the game.  Although we won this match, we still haven’t qualified to the next round.  However the next match is at La Rosaleda in front of our fans.  The state of the pitch hindered play somewhat, though we were both determined to play good football and we overcame the problem.  Getting the chance to play more minutes on the pitch and scoring goals gives a player confidence and helps the rhythm of the game, although we view it as more of an exercise.  I’d love to score goals in League matches, and I hope I can continue in the same way as tonight.”
 

Statements from Seba Fernández:
“I’m pleased with our performance, we won the match and scored some important away goals.  We played well and are now looking forward to the second leg home match.  We were up against a very motivated team on a difficult pitch.”


Statements from Duda:
“It was a difficult game tonight in poor conditions.  The important thing is that we played well and this knock-out stage is now in our favour.  The state of the pitch wasn’t ideal for our usual style of play, but we’re pleased we came away with a victory.”