Manuel Pellegrini does not want to underestimate the potential of Aris Limassol, the rival of Real Betis this Thursday on the third day of the group stage of the Europa League with the Cypriots currently leading, equal on points with the other three teams (Rangers , Sparta Prague and Betis himself): “The classification perfectly reflects what the group is doing. It is more belief than fact to think that Aris is an easy team but has every chance to qualify, like the others team in the group,” said the Chilean on Wednesday at the official press conference before the match against Cyprus.
Regarding the moment of Real Betis, which has six games without defeat (four draws), but has won only two of the last eight but drawn, he commented the following: “We are in a solid position in the League and doing We did well in the Europa League. We are within our expectations in the League and the Europa League. It is important to score to jump back up in the standings. The group is equal and it will not be decided until the last game.”
Pellegrini said of Aris Limassol that “they are a strong opponent, with strong players who will force us to play a complete game. We have to show our enthusiasm on the field.” And about the upcoming signing of Greek central defender Sokratis, who is expected to undergo medical tests this Thursday in Seville, did not want to get involved: “It is a topic that has been discussed a lot. When it comes to fulfillment we will have something to say.”
Regarding the number of goals conceded so far this season, 16 in 12 official matches, Pellegrini does not see too many problems: “They scored nine goals against us in two games. In the other eight, they scored one or nothing against us. We were very consistent, except for those two games. We also have to consider that we have fewer centre-backs than last season, although not I’m complaining about the ones that weren’t there. The ones that were there did a great job, except for those two games.”
He doesn’t think the many draws in recent weeks are anything to worry about: “We can also win tomorrow and be undone. There are a lot of draws, but three out of four are on the road. Playing away is always difficult; so teams need better local numbers. For example, after 1-1 in Granada, they went 2-0 against Barça. If we win, it means we did something more great. We hope to get it done this Thursday.”
Source: La Verdad
I’m Rose Herman and I work as an author for Today Times Live. My expertise lies in writing about sports, a passion of mine that has been with me since childhood. As part of my job, I provide comprehensive coverage on everything from football to tennis to golf.
