The AEK team is in Andorra La Vella for the reunion with Inter D’Escaldes tomorrow (7:30 pm, Comsote) for the 2nd round of the Conference League.
In the press conference ahead of the second leg, Matias Almeida focused on the image his team showed after a 4-0 lead that led to a 4-3 final.
“For 65 minutes we did things perfectly and then the game ended 4-3 because of our own mistakes, because of some strong points from the opponent. We showed that we could have scored many more goals.”commented “Naked”.
“We missed a penalty, a penalty was awarded that if there had been VAR it might not have been awarded and we won. I am starting and slowly learning about the changes that are taking place in relation to the administration”He continued.
Afterwards, the Argentine coach expressed concern. “I understand and observe the change of opinions. If these 20 minutes can change someone’s opinion and there are doubts about these two years or even about the end of last season, if there are different thoughts, that makes me think a lot.”he said.
“The analysis of football should be more in-depth. We have been here for two years and every day we dedicate passion, love and respect. With successes, with mistakes, with two titles that we won, with a season in which everything was decided at the end. All this means that we have transformed AEK into a competitive team. Anyone who has doubts should take their own measures. We will have to keep working, keep winning and be able to have a year of calm and peace.”.
Regarding the criticism, Almeida responded: “The way I work is the same from the first to the last day. I work to win, to improve, knowing our mistakes. But the results so far are more positive than negative. I always set an example of how important our world is. I’m not going to change that, I’m going to keep thinking the same way.”.
Regarding absences due to illness, he highlighted: “I trust the players who are good. It’s better to have everyone available, but when things happen, like a disease, it doesn’t depend on us. Imagine what Covid means to me. I lost my father to this disease and I’m terrified of that word, I don’t even want to say it. As long as there are players available, I think the same way.”.
As for what he will tell his players? “My thinking is the same whether we play against Inter d’Escaldes or against Inter Milan. Who are they underestimating? Us or those who expect to score 15 goals? Humility in life is a powerful thing, a beautiful thing. A difficult word for the world to achieve. That’s how I feel right now.”.