Sergio Gonzalez was thrilled with Espanyol’s passage into the Copa del Rey semi-finals on Thursday at the expense of tie favourites Sevilla.
Los Periquitos defeated the Andalucians 3-2 on aggregate to set up a last-four date with Athletic Bilbao, and the Coach wasted no time in challenging his team to prolong their strong run of form.
“I feel great joy. My team were very mature and able to read a very good game against very strong rivals,” he told reporters after the game.
“We had to keep drawing water from the boat [after we went 1-0 down].
“[Putting in Diego Colotto to form a five-man defence] went well because the team were strengthened and Sevilla had no chances [as a result].
“These are the matches which motivate you. I said the atmosphere would be hellish, with passionate fans supporting them, but my team adapted and didn’t concede any more goals, which was key.
“The team are on a high, and hopefully we can keep [this run] going for a long time but we still have room for improvement.
“[Before the semi-finals] we must first think about Sunday’s game in the League at Sanchez Pizjuan, which will be a bit strange.
“We must keep improving our game. The Copa is special to me, but so is the League. Every game is important. We did it, and I’m so happy.”
