Pioli insists Milan must keep their heads high against the Spurs
Milan must display their game rather than sit back and defend their one-goal lead
Stefano Pioli has urged AC Milan players to play an attractive game rather than defending their 1-0 lead from the first leg. After an impressive first leg, Milan will travel to London to hopefully increase their lead and advance to the final 8 in the Champions League.
Back at San Siro, it was Brahim Diaz, who scored to give Milan the leverage over Tottenham Hotspurs.
This is Milan’s first time in the Champions League last 8 after the 2011-12 season.
What did Pioli have to say?
In the pre-match conference, Piolo said, “Tomorrow is the match of personalities. Our opponents are formidable from an offensive point of view, they will play with great intensity.
“We must be prepared to control the game more. We have a very small advantage, but we cannot think of managing it. We must attack and play with intensity.”
Talking about the pressure of the away crowd
“We expect a loud stadium, just like San Siro was. But the crowd doesn’t score goals. We arrive with confidence, enthusiasm, and determination.”
Return of Antonio Conte
The spurs have been blessed with the return of head coach Antonio Conte. The Italian was sidelined due to undergoing gallbladder surgery which forced the team to play without him.
Pioli himself understands that the return of Antonio Conte makes Spurs a force to reckon with. He even feels that his team will struggle to keep up with the intensity of a Premier League side.
“Antonio Conte’s presence on the bench will be an added value for Tottenham,” Pioli added. “But beyond Conte, we will find a highly prepared and motivated opponent.
“Both teams want to go through this round. Tottenham will probably try to attack more than at San Siro. We have to watch out for particular moments.”
You might also like
