Analysis
“I’m proud of the lads' work, especially considering the context of the match, against Real Sociedad that gave their all. Young players stepped up, we controlled the physical loads, and the fans should feel proud. We competed and landed on our feet, and now need to focus on what’s important. We stood up to the rival throughout, we started well and then they sunk us with associative play. There were some transitions we did well. In the second half, we conceded with a set piece at the start and it was tough. The normal thing is that when the lower category team concedes, they throw in the towel, yet we ended up in the rival area. Now we need to recover and prepare for the Ceuta game.”
Options in the match
“They had situations to concede a goal. We had the action of Cordero and that of Jokin. It was an even match against a higher category rival and a benchmark side in Spain and Europe. Roberto could have gone level. We had to play all or nothing, we had a clean week. If we had had a corner at the end, Carlos López would have gone up. We used up the substitutions very quickly. Young players took part, there are no starters. The important thing is that there is competitiveness. I am very happy for Moussa, who played at a high level despite not being given opportunities in the league. It’s good that there is competitiveness.”
Competitive tension
“The positive thing is that 70-80% of Primera RFEF teams have been on holiday, and we have had competitive tension. Everyone wanted to play, we have to work hard, and we have better games than this one this season. Cordero, Aarón, Manu Molina had minutes on the pitch. There are many positives to take from this and now we have to be clear that the remainder of the season is going to be tough.”
Real Sociedad
“They respected the competition and us. The romanticism of the Cup is lovely. They have a team to fight for it like they’ve done before. Playing against the best and having the opportunity to see each other is the most beautiful thing about football. Their precision requires us to be better. We were very good, if not we could have been three or four down.”
Two categories’ difference
“It’s a match that everyone wants to play to show a competitive level. It was high-level, with another match context in which you have to defend more than in our division. We saw ourselves able to maintain the constant pace of Real Sociedad. We went for the match at all times and didn’t relax. We have threatened them, especially in the final minutes, and that for me is the most important thing.”