Delio Rossi believes Palermo fully deserved their Coppa Final spot. “Over two legs we were superior to Milan.”
The Rosanero earned a 2-2 draw at San Siro in the first leg and won 2-1 this evening to reach their third Coppa Italia Final, following on from runner-up medals in 1974 and 1979.
“We knew that we were facing a stronger side, so it needed two huge performances and I think over the two legs we were superior to Milan,” said the Coach.
Delio Rossi believes Palermo fully deserved their Coppa Final spot. “Over two legs we were superior to Milan.”
The Rosanero earned a 2-2 draw at San Siro in the first leg and won 2-1 this evening to reach their third Coppa Italia Final, following on from runner-up medals in 1974 and 1979.
“We knew that we were facing a stronger side, so it needed two huge performances and I think over the two legs we were superior to Milan,” said the Coach.
“I am happy for our fans, all of Sicily and the South, as we are proving that you can create great football clubs in this area of the country.”
Rossi surprised many by making a substitution during the first half, taking off 19-year-old midfielder Afriyie Acquah for Armin Bacinovic.
“I felt bad replacing Acquah, but the lad was having some tactical problems and was perhaps a little too anxious at this big occasion. I'm confident he'll be of great use to the team starting from tomorrow.
“A Coach has to make choices, such as leaving out Fabrizio Miccoli or sending others to the stands. I'm glad the fans know I always try to do what's best for the team.”
Rossi has a lot of support in the city, but could well leave when his contract expires in June. After all, he was already fired and re-hired last month and the rapport with President Maurizio Zamparini remains extremely difficult.
“I will meet with the President after the end of the season, but that is true regardless of the results we manage to achieve.”
Palermo have not only reached the Coppa Italia Final after 32 years, but effectively qualified for the Europa League.
This is because the other finalist will be either Inter or Roma, who both look set to qualify for Europe via their Serie A status.