Pellegrini Analyzes Betis' Victory Against HJK Helsinki
20/12/2024
By RSR Málaga, 20 December
Manuel Pellegrini, manager of Real Betis, addressed the media following his team's 1-0 win against HJK Helsinki, a result that secured their place in the next round of the Conference League. While pleased with the effort, the Chilean coach acknowledged the team's struggles in the final third.
"The Team Gave Everything for 90 Minutes"
Reflecting on the game, Pellegrini expressed satisfaction with the team’s determination but lamented the lack of precision:
“Very happy because we won and kept a clean sheet. The team fought for 90 minutes to make the difference. We didn’t lack intensity or effort, but we did lack precision in attack.”
First Half of the Season: "More than Satisfactory"
When asked to evaluate Betis' performance so far this season, Pellegrini highlighted the challenges and accomplishments:
“More than satisfactory. I can’t separate the Conference League from La Liga and the Copa. We’ve dealt with eight or nine injuries, relied on youth players, and competed across three tournaments. We remain alive in two knockout competitions and are just three points away from European positions in La Liga.”
Injury Woes Impacting Style of Play
Injuries in midfield have affected Betis’ ability to implement Pellegrini’s preferred style of play. He acknowledged the team's limitations:
“Player characteristics are crucial. I would’ve liked more control and vision in the midfield, but we lacked that type of player due to injuries. We played with intensity and pushed forward, but our precision with the ball wasn’t enough to create damage.”
Praise for Chimy Ávila
Pellegrini commended Chimy Ávila for his recent performances, despite the red card against Villarreal, praising the Argentine as emblematic of the team’s fighting spirit:
“Chimy was the team’s image—relentless, running everywhere, putting in crosses, and always accelerating. That spirit is vital. The team may lack finesse in its football, but you can’t fault our intensity, pressing, or desire.”
Pellegrini also highlighted the contributions of other high-energy players like Assane, Abde, and Jesús, emphasizing their roles in maintaining the team’s competitive edge.
