Vedat Muriqi, Manu Morlanes and Martin Valjent reflected on our 1-1 draw with Villarreal CF. Find out what they had to say below.
Vedat Muriqi:
On the draw: We deserved more against a great team like Villarreal; we had far more chances than they did. Their goalkeeper made several great saves. Every point counts—we’ll keep fighting and focus on Wednesday.
On the next match: This point could be worth a lot more if we get something out of Wednesday’s game too. These are two vital away matches. Everything will be decided there, and hopefully we can get all six points and enjoy the last home game of the season with our fans.
Manu Morlanes:
On the draw: It’s a point that leaves a bitter taste, but in the bigger picture, it’s important to pick up points. We can’t forget where we were two months ago. It’s the final sprint, and we’re feeling confident.
On the game: The coach already told us this was a 12-match league, and in this league the team is performing magnificently. There are reasons to believe and dream of survival.
On the fan reception: It was incredible. An atmosphere like today’s gives us that extra boost. The fans pushed us to score that goal and come close to getting the second. We encourage them to come cheer us on in Madrid and Valencia.
On upcoming matches: There’s no time to waste; the team has shown that we can beat anyone on the road, so let’s start preparing right now for Wednesday’s match.
Martin Valjent:
On the draw: At this stage of the season, and with a home crowd like today’s, it feels like a letdown. They’re a Champions League-caliber opponent, and the match had become an uphill battle. The fight continues; we have to stay focused.
On personal thoughts: It’s always a great team effort to shut down forwards like that, especially with the physical toll from today’s heat. We gave it absolutely everything we had. Wednesday is a great opportunity, and we have to keep this momentum going.