The Chilean coach of Real Betis, ManuelPellegrini, celebrated with optimism the 2-0 victory over FCPorto in the group stage of the Champions League, but asked his players not to be distracted by the euphoria and to concentrate on the next match. “The score was quite unfair in relation to what had happened in the game, especially in the first half, where we had many opportunities,” said the coach during the press conference.
Pellegrini highlighted the confidence that the team maintained throughout the match, despite the opponent's initial advantage. “You don't have to look ahead, but rather look at the next game,” he recalled, underlining the importance of maintaining concentration in each phase of the tournament. The coach also highlighted the quality of Isco, who has returned to the squad after two serious injuries and who, according to Pellegrini, “makes the difference” on the field.
Betis, which has played in the European competition every year since its arrival in the Champions League 21 years ago, once again beat a leader in its league, as it did against Lille last season. “We don't want to be satisfied with having arrived, but rather to compete as far as football reality allows us,” added the coach. In addition, the Chilean commentator praised the evolution of Abde and the performance of ÁngelOrtiz, as well as the commitment of the squad that allows them to rotate without losing quality.
The coach also made reference to Cucho, who had already shown his importance in the team and who contributed from the bench in the match against Porto. Betis, with its style of play and its collective mentality, continues to seek to advance in the continental competition, while keeping its attention on the next phase of the Champions League.