The Málaga coach spoke at the post-match press conference following the defeat in Elche. “We were one of the teams that put the most pressure on the most dominant side in the league,” he stated.
Analysis of the 2-0
“It was a very evenly matched game. Elche are a highly dominant side, especially when it comes to ball possession. They created chances with balls played in behind and through their strength in central play. After the hydration break, things evened out more. In the second half, when the game felt a bit cooler, we had two big opportunities to take the lead. Then, with their persistence, they beat us with a top-quality cross from Josan.”
“We competed very well, close to coming away with something. Our fans should be proud of how we stood up to what has been the best team in the division for a large part of the season.”
Dignity and a job well done
“Elche, with their inside play, usually create space and draw players in, but today that happened very little. That speaks volumes about what we managed to do. Considering the context we came into this match with, our goal was to compete and bring dignity to our fans against a very overwhelming rival. In the moments when we were close, they responded by loading the box with players like Mourad and Sory Kaba, and that’s why they were in the top flight.”
Top level rival
“We came with the intention of taking all three points. We were one of the teams that put the most pressure on the most dominant side in the league. We had our moment, but I have to congratulate the boys, we stood up in a high-level setting against a top opponent. We held our ground, and that gives me confidence for the future.”