Valencia coach Unai Emery is optimistic about Wednesday’s first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against Barcelona.
Emery feels that his side does not just need to beat Pep Guardiola’s side to stand a chance of reaching the final, but stressed that they cannot afford to concede and need to win by at least a two-goal margin.
“Our main priority is obviously to win the match, but that won’t be enough,” Emery told reporters.
“We have to keep a clean sheet as well and preferably win by more than one goal. Additionally, it’s crucial for us to end the match with 11 players.”
“We are wary of Barcelona’s strength, despite their absences. They miss some important players, but have great alternatives. Barcelona are always a very dangerous team.”
Meanwhile, Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola is hoping his team bounce back from Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Villarreal.
“Every time we have played Valencia over the last four years, Valencia have always been an awesome team,” Guardiola said.
“They’re strong in all the positions. For us it’s a huge test to compete every time you compete against them. Tomorrow (Wednesday) will not be an exception.”
The likes of Pedro, Ibrahim Afellay, Andres Iniesta and David Villa are all sidelined with injury, making Barcelona’s task of making the Copa del Rey final even harder.
The second leg is at Camp Nou on February 8.
