Pellegrini targets top spot in Group C after securing Champions League progession

08-Nov-2012 6:15:00 PM

The Chilean coach is delighted that his Malaga side sealed their place in the knock-out stages of the competition, but has urged them to finish what they have started

Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini has spoken of his delight at qualifying for the knock-out phase of the Champions League, but has urged his side not to let their performance levels drop.

The Andalusians are through to the last 16 of Europe’s premier competition with a 1-1 against AC Milan at San Siro on Tuesday, and the 59-year-old is now targeting a first-placed finish.

"We take great satisfaction from what we have achieved," the former Real Madrid boss told Marca.

"Now the task we have is to show that we are the best in this group. We have to focus in football and now we have to finish top of the group and focus on the league."

Despite the good news on the pitch, los Boquernones continue to suffer from financial difficulties, but Pellegrini has claimed that is best combated by performing at a high level on the pitch.

"I have communication with the leaders and we all know there are problems, but it has been shown that playing well is the only way to overcome the payment problems."

Malaga currently top Group C, five points ahead of second-placed Milan.