La Liga

Sevilla Coach Acknowledges Superior Barcelona

Having seen his side become the latest team to fall victim to a rampant Barcelona side, Manolo Jimenez recognised the brilliance of his opponents, while stating that he expected more from his side...

Nov 30, 2008 2:10:57 AM

Sevilla coach, Manolo Jiménez yells at his players in frustration as he watches his team stumble to yet another defeat, this time to Standard Liege in the UEFA Cup (Marca)

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Sevilla came into their match against Barcelona with the best defensive record in Spain, but 90 minutes later, it was their opponents who claimed that title as the Blaugrana raced to a 3-0 win.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Jimenez could not hide his admiration for Barcelona, saying, "We played a good first half and it was unfair that we went into the break behind, but in the second half they were superior. In the first half they didn't play well because we didn't allow them to, but in the second they had the ball and in that situation they are deadly. The quality of Daniel Alves, Messi and Xavi has destroyed us and to say otherwise would be to lie."

Jimenez then touched on the condition of Sebastien Squillaci, who had to be substituted due to injury, stating, "It is not a major injury, he was able to walk himself."

Finally, the coach spoke of the Sevilla fans, who berated their team at the final whistle: "They have to continue expecting good results because we are a big club. If they are angry, they have every reason to be. This team can play a lot better."

Sevilla's next test comes in the form of an away trip to play Real Madrid.

Arjun Miglani