Eusebio Di Francesco warns Sassuolo “must act as if we’re on 0-0 and play to win” against Red Star in the Europa League play-off.
The Neroverdi won the first leg 3-0 and it could’ve been considerably more but for the woodwork and poor finishing.
“We are not concerned by the atmosphere. We welcome more fans in the stadium, as we play football to entertain people,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
Eusebio Di Francesco warns Sassuolo “must act as if we’re on 0-0 and play to win” against Red Star in the Europa League play-off.
The Neroverdi won the first leg 3-0 and it could’ve been considerably more but for the woodwork and poor finishing.
“We are not concerned by the atmosphere. We welcome more fans in the stadium, as we play football to entertain people,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“It would be terrible to underestimate this match just because we have a 3-0 aggregate lead. I told the lads we must act as if we’re on 0-0 and play to win, as we always do. It is our mentality and we have to take it forward into Europe.
“We do not want to contain opponents or games, but take control of them.”
Alessandro Matri is available and “could start, he could not,” while Gregoire Defrel and Alessandro Gazzola are rested.
Di Francesco believes Sassuolo’s popularity is about more than just the focus on homegrown players.
“You can be Italian and play bad football, which means nobody will watch you. It takes a special mix to get attention. We worked over the years to build a certain mentality and you could see it in the fact we were 3-0 up against Red Star and still looking for the fourth goal.
“Obviously not all games go our way, but the approach and desire to do well are always there.”
Roma will be in the Europa League after their Champions League play-off exit to Porto.
“That showed how a red card can change everything. I thought Roma were a little unlucky in certain situations and of course I am disappointed, as the Giallorossi will always have a place in my heart.”
Sassuolo have received the all-clear from UEFA to hold a minute’s silence before kick-off for the earthquake victims in central Italy.
“I am from the area, so I feel this tragedy very keenly,” added Di Francesco.