-On how he experienced his debut at the bench of Olympiacos: “Indeed, it was a tough match, we played against a very competitive opponent that put us in trouble in terms of our build-up. It is a defense-minded squad and they gave us no room to be threatening. We are more satisfied by our performance in the first half, in which we also managed to score. We are not that happy with the second half. We failed to put as much pressure on them as we wanted, since they have us a hard time. We are really happy with the first half and, certainly, the final result”
-On whether he feels pressure ahead of the return match, because of the side’s performance in the second half: “As we said, we are happy with our first half, but this doesn’t mean we didn’t try in the second as well. We had chances apart from Cambiasso’s. The result gives no guarantee of qualifying; it just give us an advantage. This is our first win and it will also boost our psychology. It may not secure our qualifying. Yet if provides us with an advantage for the return match that will be held at home and before our fans. Our supporters are satisfied with this win and they will be on our side in the second leg. At this moment, we feel stronger.”
-On whether this victory has dual meaning: “It is a result that helps, but we cannot rely on that. Our players’ state of mind and our attitude will not depend on the outcome of just one week. We have seven days ahead to prep for the next match; we will heavily do so and it’s going to take a lot of work. Certainly, we are satisfied with this first step of ours in order to qualify to the group stage”.
-On whether he will give more opportunities to young players, like he did tonight with Androutsos: “We have to be mellow with young players. Tonight, we brought Androutsos in the match because, during this week, we have had some good indications; however, mind you, this is a critical match ahead that will determine qualifying to the group stage. We have to be cautious with our calls, e.g. for the total time we will use these players. What matters for us now is to make the team better; for that, we will use the ones that may help us. We are satisfied with the display of these kids”.
-His opinion on Andre Martins: “It is too early to say whether he will play in the return match. He is a player of such quality and experience that can be of help for the team. We have one week ahead to prepare the match, develop our strategy and see if Andre Martins will be able to help us in this next match”.
