Javi Gracia has encouraged his Osasuna troops to face tonight’s League meeting with Atletico Madrid with a positive mindset.
Whilst admitted that his side will face difficulties in trying to end Atleti’s 100 per cent start to the season so far, the Pamplona outfit’s Coach knows what his side must do.
“Let’s raise our game against a team that we know will attack us much, that defends very well, that can counter-attack very well and is good at set-pieces,” Gracia addressed reporters pre-match.
“We have to play a very intense game and compete at their level if we want to achieve something.
“It will be difficult to take the lead against a team like Atletico at the Calderon. Whilst I speak very highly of the opponent and I believe that they deserve that, I am not pessimistic, nor do I think that we will not have our chances.
“I see virtues in my team and potential to be able to get a good result.”
Osasuna picked up a first win and their first points of the season at the weekend with a 2-1 win at home to Elche.
“It was a relief, so we can contiue working with the same intensity. But, it cost us a lot. It is going to be like this through the season. We have a group that is ready for that and that will not take things for granted.
“Favourites on Tuesday? For me, it is of little use to talk about favourites, both teams will have to demonstrate what they can do.
“We will play against a great side, that has won everything, that has thrashed opponents in their last two home games. We know the difficulties, but we have the tools to play them and we must show this.”
