‘Betis’ return a dream come true’

Pepe Mel enthused at Real Betis’ 8-1 aggregate Play-off round win, describing progression to the Europa League group stage as ‘a dream come true’.

Los Beticos defeated Czech side Jablonec 6-0 on Thursday evening thanks to goals from Ruben Castro, Javier Matilla, Jorge Molina, Bryan Rodriguez, Xavi Torres and an own goal.

The result, which made for an 8-1 aggregate win, secured the team’s place in today’s group stage draw for the competition proper and left their Coach very happy.

“It was a difficult game for us at the start. We came into this after a first leg in which we had made things complicated,” remembered Mel.

“We did not deserve to win out there last week. They showed that it was for something that they had won the Cup and Super Cup in the Czech Republic.

“With a goal they could have gotten into the game. We played very serious, pressing very hard. We have been smart to have the ball and to move them.

“Then things have gone as they have. At 2-0 it was necessary to demonstrate that not only can we play good football but that most important are goals.

“[Progress into the group stages] is the final confirmation of the great year we had last season. We had to win today so that everything was realised. This is a dream come true.

“I said three years ago that my dream was to be with this team in Europe. It is a dream for everyone, but we had to confirm it.

“We had a great responsibility. Today ended last season. We are now where we deserve to be.”

Tags Jablonec Mel
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