05.01.2011 23:59

Guardiola praises team on win at San Mamés

Anna Segura

Pep Guardiola has spoken about how important it was to qualify for the quarter finals of the Copa del Rey at San Mamés, where the fans do all they can to get behind their team.

Guardiola already knew about playing at the ‘Cathedral’ from his playing days, but tonight’s game at San Mamés was absolute class. To win a game under such circumstances was something very special, and he said “I know the real story would have been for them to have beaten us, but I think the story should be that we came here with the result from the first game and managed to do what we did today”.

Similarity to the derby

Guardiola said the game with Athletic reminded him of the game on December 18 against Espanyol. “It was very similar to the game at Cornellà, just as intense but the ground was worse” and yet he was relived that the players were still able to cope with the situation.

Abidal, “spectacular”

There was no getting away from the name of Abidal, who the coach described as “spectacular. Both as a centre and full back, his form at the moment is just amazing”. Guardiola had to mention the former technical secretary Txiki Begiristain, for making “such an impressive signing”.

Pinto and Keita

It was not just Abidal, but also Pinto and Keita that were singled out for praise. Said Guardiola, in this team “there are roles … there are important players that get all the praise, but there are others that are just as vital for us”.

Closing in on the final

Guardiola added that “we are two steps away from the final and I can assure you we’ll do all we can to get there”. The teams standing in the way of a place in the semi finals are Getafe and Betis, and to underestimate them “would be a lack of respect.”