Stefano Pioli believes that his AC Milan side ‘can do even better’ than they have been doing, and believes the game against Porto tomorrow provides a chance for the team to finally get off the mark in the Champions League.
The Rossoneri welcome Porto to San Siro knowing they need a win to stay in the competition having lost their first three games of the group stages so far. Pioli’s men led at half-time in the first game at Anfield against Liverpool but lost 3-2, they were winning and dominating against Atletico Madrid before refereeing decisions ended up making it a 2-1 loss and an abject performance versus Porto in the reverse fixture meant a 1-0 defeat.
As is customary the day before a Champions League fixture, Pioli spoke to Sky Italia as well as doing his pre-match press conference, with his comments transcribed by MilanNews.
What did the Roma game leave as an impression?
“He left us with the awareness that by playing in a certain way we can build advantageous situations. This also gives us awareness for tomorrow’s game.”
Will the match against Porto one of redemption in the Champions League?
“Zero points in the table is too few and we believe we deserve more. Together with the fans we will try to give ourselves a good evening in the Champions League against a difficult opponent.”
What kind of opponent will Porto be?
“The level is high and in these matches every detail can make a difference. We will have to play with more concentration than in the first leg because Porto are holding the pitch well and are a great team. We will need a great performance.”
On dreaming of a week like this as Milan boss…
“From the first day here at Milanello I had positive feelings. I have always believed in my work, in the quality of the players and in the club’s projections. The whole path we have taken must lead us to reach a goal.”
On the last performance against Porto…
“Tomorrow we will need a great performance. We have the qualities to do it and we will have to prove it.”
On Ibrahimovic and his condition…
“Ibrahimovic is better and Roma’s performance was of a high technical and tactical level. He needs to be managed because it comes from a long period of inactivity and we’ll see what choices to make.”
On the growth of the team…
“We have two great qualities at Milanello which is the daily work where the players give their all to keep growing. We are doing great performances but we can do even better both individually. Then we are balanced, we don’t get too excited or depressed when things don’t they succeed. This is the best path for a team that knows they are doing well but can do something more.”
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