The stage is set for a dramatic conclusion to the Conference League semi-final as Rayo Vallecano travels to Strasbourg with a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg. In his pre-match press conference, the Rayo Vallecano manager outlined the delicate balance his team must strike, acknowledging their favored position while expressing deep respect for their French opponents.
The coach emphasized that the return leg at the Stade de la Meinau must be viewed as a direct continuation of the first match at Vallecas. He pointed to Strasbourg's remarkable comeback in the quarter-finals against Mainz, where they overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit with a stunning 4-0 victory at home, as a clear warning. "We know the Strasbourgeois will try to come back, and they have already done it against Mainz," he stated, highlighting the resilience and attacking threat his side will face.
When asked about the label of favorites, the manager conceded the point, citing the aggregate lead and his squad's greater experience in European competition. "Yes, we are favorites because we lead 1-0, with more experienced players and a more experienced team. That is the reality," he admitted. However, he was quick to add that this status comes with an imperative: "But we must go on the attack." This suggests Rayo will not adopt a purely defensive posture to protect their lead.
A significant factor in the tactical equation is the expected atmosphere in Strasbourg. The coach drew a direct parallel to his team's quarter-final second leg away to AEK Athens, where they played before a hostile crowd of 30,000. That experience, which ended in a 3-1 defeat (though Rayo advanced 4-1 on aggregate), has provided a valuable lesson. "It will be the same scenario on Thursday evening. The Strasbourg public will be present, and that will give us additional motivation," he said, framing the intimidating environment as a source of fuel rather than fear.
The manager was candid about the emotional toll of the first leg, revealing he suffered from a sore throat all day due to the tension. He stressed the need for mental fortitude in the second leg, insisting there is no room for emotional lapses. "We are really focused on the match, and there is no place for emotion. The players must play because it is not over," he declared. The goal is to maintain composure and "continue to enjoy with our public and give them something we haven't given them yet."
Tactically, the coach anticipates a different kind of football match compared to the first leg. He lavished praise on Racing Club de Strasbourg, calling them a "superb team" with a "very good level of play." His focus is squarely on the footballing challenge. "What interests me is the game. We will have to play football. We will have to be very good because the Strasbourgeois have a very good level," he analyzed.
The rhythm of playing frequent matches is seen as an advantage for Rayo Vallecano. The manager believes the constant cycle of games prevents his team from overthinking and falling into "eternal reflection." This busy schedule fosters a sense of unity and joy within the squad. "We take advantage of it all together, with a lot of joy and communion, knowing what awaits us," he explained, suggesting this collective spirit provides a layer of security.
Ultimately, the message from the Rayo Vallecano dugout is one of cautious confidence. While respecting the magnitude of the task and the quality of the opponent, the team is determined to seize the opportunity. The coach's final warning to his players was stark: "We cannot allow ourselves a second of fear regarding the final result." The mission is clear: manage the game, play their football, and secure a historic place in the Conference League final.
Based on reporting from Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu.
