The Villarreal B coach predicts a tough match against Teruel (Sunday, 12.00 pm)
Villarreal B head coach David Albelda spoke to V Play to preview the Mini Submarine’s upcoming match against Teruel, corresponding to Matchday 27 of Group II in the Primera Federación. The game will be played this Sunday at 12.00 pm at the Estadio de Pinilla.
A challenging week
“It was a week we had a lot of respect for because of the opponents and because we were playing every three days. So far, we’ve come through the first two matches with good marks. We would have liked to win both, but it wasn’t possible against Murcia, although it’s still something positive. It’s positive because of the feeling the team is giving and because of the moment we’re in, which is very nice. Above all, it’s also about how the players are growing both individually and collectively.”
The opponent: Teruel
“The match against Teruel will be different. I expect a very difficult game, with a more closed style and a more defensive system. Teruel also don’t need the ball to hurt you. They are a team that manages very well without the ball. We have to be very attentive to second balls and to defending set pieces. We expect a really complicated match. In addition, Teruel are a very solid defensive team, with a back five, but when they decide to press high they do it very well. They deal well with second balls and they’re an uncomfortable opponent. It will be difficult to impose our style there, but despite that we’re going to try. We’re prepared to face this match. We have great respect for Teruel and we know they’re having a great season, but we go there convinced we can look for the win and try to take victory.”
The team’s progress
“Results help progression both individually and collectively, and I think we’re on a good path at this stage of the season and we’re very satisfied. But it’s also true that we have to keep fighting until the end of the season and see what we’re capable of. We’re not stopping now to evaluate whether we’re doing very well. I think if we have the ability to continue along the same path until the end, that would be ideal.”
The final stretch of the season
“In terms of expectations, in a way I think we’re above what we thought at the start of the season. We know how difficult it is to work with such young players in such a demanding division. So far things are going very well for everyone and, obviously, this month we’d like to continue along this same path. Right now we look to the future with a lot of optimism, because the team is very connected.”
