Celta Vigo vs Genk - Coach Eduardo Berizzo calls for focus from Celta Vigo players
Posted Thursday, April 13, 2017 by PA
Celta Vigo coach Eduardo Berizzo has called on his side to meet the challenge of Genk head on in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final at Balaidos.
Genk booked their place in the last eight with victory over fellow Belgians Gent, who had beaten Tottenham in the last 32, while the Spaniards saw off Russian side Krasnodar.
Berizzo's men could make history and take Celta Vigo into the semi-finals of European competition for the first time.
While the coach accepts there is bound to be a sense of occasion, he hopes his players will once again raise their game.
"We realise that this is a great opportunity for us," Berizzo said at a press conference.
"There is a healthy nervousness in the team, but we have a lot of confidence and I expect the fans will give us a lot of energy.
"However, we do not see ourselves as the clear favourite, because to beat Genk we must get our best level.
"They have a lot of technically gifted players who are dangerous, so I expect two very exciting matches."
Celta Vigo could have Swedish striker John Guidetti available again following a knee injury.
Genk coach Albert Stuivenberg hopes his team can keep themselves in contention for the return leg at the Cristal Arena.
"Celta de Vigo is a team that at home is able to run over you," Stuivenberg said in an interview on www.sporza.be.
"However, back in Genk we have shown that we can create chances against such teams, so we will have to act quickly."
Stuivenberg added: "We feel we definitely have a chance and will have a plan to play to our own strengths."
Photos
More»
Meet Eva Murati, the glamorous UCL presenter
Friday April 26 2024
[PICTURE SPECIAL] Brighton 0 - 4 Manchester City
Friday April 26 2024
Meet Jude Bellingham's stunning girlfriend Laura
Thursday April 25 2024
Your Say