Palermo «Despite the disadvantage, I saw that there were the conditions to overturn the match. This is a really good group of guys. I feel like the happiest coach in the world.” Alessandro Nesta he takes his revenge: last week, after the debacle with Cosenza, he apologized in front of some fans who asked him to leave. A few days later the world was turned upside down again but he, demonstrating intelligence and humility, gave up on taking away any pebbles. During the presentation the coach said that it was time to pick up the pieces. However, it was not imaginable that it could happen at the Barbera stadium in Palermo. «I have to repeat what I said in recent days – explains the Granata coach – many things have happened to us this season but we have always tried to recover and cheer ourselves up».
What did he say to the team at half-time when they were perhaps undeservedly trailing?
«To believe in it and to continue playing. In the first ten minutes we came close to scoring on a couple of occasions and there was confidence. In fact, if we play as we know how, we can put anyone in difficulty.”
Did you expect something more from Palermo?
«There are games and games. We all knew that Palermo has great players with important changes and I didn’t mind. We lose 4-0 at home against Cosenza and then we come here to win. The Serie B championship is a mess.”
How do you explain this transformation in so few days?
«Because we played with courage. After three consecutive defeats, the last one at home 4-0 and with the final dispute, coming to win in Palermo was not easy. This victory is priceless.”
And how had he prepared it? Because a response of this magnitude was difficult to predict.
«With daily work and staying clear. When it’s bad you’re there and when it’s good you’re there. Even when we lost I always said that my boys have the right attitude.”
You have the same difference in points between play out and play off.
«For goodness sake – Nesta immediately distances himself – the last time I heard this word we didn’t win anymore. Let’s just think about saving ourselves, even if it’s on the last day. We are not ready for anything else.” What was in that final embrace with Malpeli? «Michele is a very important figure. He helps everyone when he sees us down: he is a fundamental character.”
And then Kabashi dedicated the victory to her on behalf of the team.
«I’m not dead. I cringe and thank Kabashi.” Let’s say a word for Libutti. «Golden boy and unique kindness. He hadn’t played for a while but Libu is a sure thing. If you ask for that he gives you that. A warranty”. © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
