“We have to take advantage of the strength of the Calderón”
Gabriel Fernández and Diego Ribas were the leading roles in the ‘Open Media Day’ celebrated in the VIP lounge at the Vicente Calderón. Both agreed that the team “is ready to play a great game”.
Atlético and Chelsea are two teams with a very similar game, which will make for a very hard-fought qualifying round. “It’s going to be a very competitive match, with two similar game styles. We’re very excited and we have to take advantage of the first match at home because it can be decisive to play the second”, Gabi pointed out. Something Diego endorsed. "The important thing is to play well, take advantage of the strength of the Calderón, that atmosphere is so special it helps us a lot. We have to enjoy it and that will help us win".
We’re more excited than anybody
Our current situation at this point of the season is privileged, however, our captain stated, “we shouldn’t relax”. “Even though we’ve come a long way, the most important part remains. The team is prepared for the current situation, but we haven’t won anything yet and we can’t relax”, he said. Because of this, the work must be the same as throughout the season, according to Diego Ribas, “The work we did is the same we’re going to keep on doing and we both have equal chances. We’re ready to play a great game", he claimed.
The Brazilian player also admitted, "It’s always very complicated in Champions and you have to thoroughly prepare the matches to play them well, and that’s what we’re doing. They’ll be strong on Tuesday, and that’s what we’re expecting”. As indicated by Gabi, the team “that’s more successful, will win”. “Mourinho’s team are very well prepared tactically and will come to play their game. We have to counteract their game with our game on the side-lines, searching for Diego. The one that’s most successful will win”.
The team keeps up the work and humility with which they began the season. “We’re looking at an Atlético that’s coping with the pressure, that’s beyond all praises. We have our feet on the ground because there’s a lot left to play”. Lastly, Gabi confirmed, “We’re more excited than anybody, I don’t know if we’re more capable, but more excited than anybody for sure. We’re going to try and make the most of this”.
