Vincenzo Montella felt Sevilla went out of the Champions League with ‘pride’ after their stalemate at Bayern Munich on Wednesday.
Sevilla were in need of at least two away goals, having lost the first leg of their quarter-final 2-1 on home soil, but they were denied by a Bayern shutout, despite Joaquin Correa’s powerful header crashing against the bar after the break, prior to being sent off late on.
“The team had a good game, we played with balance and had chances. They weren’t very clear ones, although we missed a good one in the first half with Sarabia and one in the second with Correa’s head,” the Coach told BeIN Sports.
“I’m proud of the team because they played with character and it wasn’t easy. Our opponents can win the Champions League, but we go out with pride.
“Villarreal next? The players must be happy with how they performed in the Champions League, and we have to apply it to La Liga.
“It won’t be easy on Saturday, but we have to play with the same pride and desire. The team tried, and in the end they were a bit tired. We lacked the goal and lost some energy.
“The team gave everything, so we bow out with pride. Our opponents were very strong. Now our minds are on La Liga. We have to play in Europe next year.
“Fans? They were wonderful. I’m proud to train this team with these fans. The chances for Sarabia and Correa could’ve changed the game or given us more strength.
“We weren’t lucky in either game, neither in the first leg, conceding two goals, nor tonight with the crossbar.
“Still, that’s football and we have to accept it.”
Bayern Munich 0-0 Sevilla (2-1 agg.)
Correa sent off 90 (S)
Bayern Munich: Ulreich; Kimmich, Boateng, Hummels, Rafinha (Sule 87); Javi Martinez; Robben, Muller, James, Ribery (Thiago 71); Lewandowski (Wagner 77)
Sevilla: Soria; Jesus Navas, Mercado, Lenglet, Escudero; Banega, N’Zonzi; Sarabia (Sandro 70), Franco Vazquez (Nolito 81), Joaquin Correa; Ben Yedder (Muriel 65)
Referee: Collum (SCO)
