Jose Luis Mendilibar praised his side for their efforts in turning around at first-leg deficit to progress in the Copa del Rey.
1-0 down from the first leg away to Sporting Gijon, Mendilibar’s side ran out 2-0 winners in front of their own support on Tuesday night to ensure passage to the Last 16.
“We knew it was going to be hard work. It is not easy to win by two goals to one,” reflected the Coach afterwards.
“We had a cool head, despite not scoring in the first half. After the break, we played well and that reassured us. In assessing the two games it is right that we are progressing.
“We have deserved to progress to the next round.”
The Coach made a number of changes to his starting line-up, but believed that it was a valuable approach.
“It is important for those who do not normally play to compete. It makes us feel strong. It keeps the streak going, and the faith in what we do.
“It doesn’t matter who we play, we are a team. We have shown that everyone can compete and it is important as there are two Cup matches coming up, probably against Valencia.”
