Roma welcome Bulgarian outfit Ludogorets to the Stadio Olimpico, in what is a do-or-die encounter for both teams in order to progress to the Europa League play-off stages. Both teams are stuck on 7 points each, but Jose Mourinho is not worried about the final result, maintaining confidence in his Giallorossi side.
Speaking to Sky Sport (via Voce Giallorossa) in his pre-match press conference, the Special One backed his team to be aggressive and hit the Eagles on the offensive whenever chances arise.
“We didn’t play the first leg well. We reacted well to their goal and we drew, then we conceded a goal that comes from the moon and we lost, but that’s football. We only have one result here; we have to win. We have to be aggressive and offensive. We have to use our heads and be controlled because they are very strong on the counterattack.”
He was asked if he has a specific approach to this match.
“Maybe it’s easier for us because we just have to win, in other circumstances there could be contradictions. We will play to win with obvious risks, but it will be a fun match for us and for the fans, we know what awaits us.”
Mourinho then joked about how the Olimpico being sold out for the encounter means that many Romanisti skip work in order to enjoy the team.
“It must always make the news, it must never be taken for granted. A giant stadium like the Olimpico sold out must always be news. These are our people, our family. We must always talk about it, their voice even away from home is incredible. Sometimes I joke that in Rome there are so many people who don’t work because there are always so many away from home. I always tell the players to think about the fans who travel and also come away from home.”
Roma will look to end the day with 10 points in second place, with Real Betis already qualifying to the next round. They are unbeaten against Bulgarian opposition in Europe in five games, keeping four clean sheets in the process.
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