Zenit Coach Luciano Spalletti insists their Champions League hopes are “not compromised” despite the home defeat to Milan.
Today’s 3-2 result in St Petersburg means that the Russians have lost both their Group E games.
Zenit Coach Luciano Spalletti insists their Champions League hopes are “not compromised” despite the home defeat to Milan.
Today’s 3-2 result in St Petersburg means that the Russians have lost both their Group E games.
“Tonight Christian Abbiati was really great, as he took two or three shots off the line,” the former Udinese” data-scaytid=”19″>Udinese and Roma boss told Sky Sport Italia.
“Our goalkeeper did not have as much work to do. However, we allowed Milan a little too much, so when you’re behind it makes everything more difficult.
“We were able to put things back together, but then we added our own contribution to this defeat. I always look to the potential of my players, but they have to then express them on the field.”
Zenit had fought back valiantly from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with a goal either side of the half-time break, but late on an own goal sealed their fate.
“Before equalising we deserved something more, then some distractions entered the fray that really cannot be allowed in a competition like this.
“Nonetheless, nothing is compromised and my players had better not think that it is. Of course, it’s difficult now, but we can do it.”