‘A great team, a great tie’

Unai Emery admitted his Sevilla team will be up against ‘a great side’ in Porto, as the two were drawn together in the Europa League.

The Rojiblancos were handed a quarter-final tie against the Portuguese outfit on Friday, and the Coach has conceded that it is going to be an even and exciting encounter.

“At this stage all the teams are strong but perhaps some sides, because of the history they bring, are more dangerous than others,” he told reporters.

“Porto are a great team and this will be a great tie. I think it will be very even. The tie will, of course, fill us with hope and optimism.

“Porto eliminated Napoli in the last round and given that fact, we are certain it's not going to be easy against them.

“I saw Porto play at Málaga  {in the Champions League round of 16] last season, when they had almost the same squad as now. They have very good players, [some of whom] have a great future.

“I wouldn't dare say we are superior or inferior to Porto. I am sure they are considered one of the tournament favourites.

“We started this season's [Europa League] in Portugal [away to Estoril Praia] with 4,000 fans travelling with us.

“We are facing a side with a big reputation in the quarter-finals and I hope those same fans will be with us again.

“Sevilla have won this trophy twice while I have reached the semi-finals as a coach. We know it won't be easy and that we will have to work hard.”

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