Manuel Pellegrini admits that Malaga were fortunate to leave Balaidos with all three points, but that the game demonstrated his players’ mental strength.
The Boquerones ran out 1-0 winners thanks to Fabrice Olinga’s record-breaking 83rd-minute strike, but they were lucky to see a late change for Celta skied over the bar.
Pellegrini believes so too, praising the hosts for contributing to the opening match of the 2012-13 La Liga campaign.
“The public saw a good show, the result of the work from both teams,” the Chilean told reporters after the game.
“We were fortunate enough to win, whilst a draw on that last play would not have been unfair.
“The game was very smooth, Celta were a great team. Our group has been through some very difficult times but they have served to make them stronger in spirit and mind.
“Now we must thing of the tie against Panathinaikos in the Champions League.”
Malaga face the Greeks in the first leg of their Champions League Play-off round clash on Wednesday.
