After confirming his side’s place in the knockout stages, Manuel Pellegrini says Malaga now want to secure top spot their Champions League group.
The Costa del Sol side booked their place in the Last 16 of UEFA’s premier competition last night with a point away to Milan.
“We played a very good first half, we had control of the ball. We kept Milan away from our goal and we scored a nice goal,” reflected the Chilean Coach after the game.
“In the second half we regret that they have equalised. In the last few minutes we defended for the result that we knew mathematically would allow us to qualify for the knockout stage.
“It is a major achievement. Many believed that Malaga had only come into this to participate, but we are convinced we can move through to the Last 16. To get there with two games remaining is very important.
“We will now continue competing. It’s a relief for our small squad to have the qualification already in hand. We would like to secure the first place in the group and that is the goal we are now looking towards.”
The Coach also commented on who else from the group he believed would be following the Spanish into the Last 16.
“I think Milan still have many chances to progress. If they achieve a good result in Belgium then they could secure it here at home to Zenit. “I think Milan are still favourite to secure qualification to the knockout stage.”