The coach of Real Oviedo, Guillermo Almada, appeared at a press conference after the 0-1 defeat against Atlético de Madrid at the Carlos Tartiere, a match marked by the efficiency of the red-and-whites and the lack of accuracy from the home team despite the good play displayed by the Asturians.
The blue coach firmly defended his team's performance and lamented a result that, in his opinion, did not reflect what happened on the pitch.
Almada highlighted the collective work of Oviedo and emphasized the difference between the development of the match and the final score. “We have to congratulate the players for the great game we played. We deserved it and came close, but we couldn't score and Oblak had a great performance. Their only shot on target was a goal.”
The coach insisted that the defeat is especially tough because of the image presented: “If we repeat performances like today, we will be much closer to victory. It has happened more than once, and the merits don't show on the scoreboard, but we have to keep going in this direction.”
The Uruguayan coach acknowledged that the emotional impact after the match was evident in the locker room. “They are hurt because of all the effort they made, even though we knew Atlético could tip the balance at any moment.”
Even so, he called for mental strength to face what lies ahead: “We have to get up and be strong because sometimes sports are unfair, as they were today. The effort and football we showed were very good, and at times we outplayed a very high-quality opponent.”
The next league match now takes on a decisive dimension for the Carbayón team. “Without a doubt, it is the most crucial match we have. It is decisive for us; we have to win at all costs and not stray from all the good work we are doing.”
Almada also thanked the support of the fans, who bid farewell to the team with applause despite the defeat.
The blue coach also referred to the complimentary words of the rival coach, Diego Simeone. “The defeat hits you, but we have to turn the situation around. Those of us who know football know that this can happen. To Cholo, I thank him for what he said about me.”
The full press conference below: