Ranieri: «I want the first place»

Ranieri: «I want the first place»

Juventus have already obtained qualification for the next phase but will still be putting all their usual determination and ardour into the match due to the fact that there is the first place in question and besides Juventus are used to doing so. This is the key concept behind Ranieri’s press conference on the eve of the match, who with his great international experience did not allow himself to say who might be the next opponent of Juventus in the next phase and therefore whether he thanks Juve will place first or second in the group: «In the Champions League names don’t count – explained Ranieri – but it is the psycho-physical condition of the team in the particular match that counts. When I reached the semi-final with Chelsea we were one of four surprises, which means that the more quoted teams were out. I repeat, what counts more is the psycho-physical condition together with the motivation».

Speaking again of the match against Bate, Ranieri cannot possibly forget the first half hour of the first leg. : «We fear everything about Bate, we remember perfectly the beginning of the match in Minsk, they were all running, helping each other and we suffered a lot». Speaking of memories, he was asked to mention the crucial moments of a difficult group which was overcome in great style: «Apart from the matches against Real, the victory against Zenit in the first match day was important because it allowed us to start off on the right foot in a moment during which we were not in top form and they were».

To conclude. Ranieri’s message is clear: «We must finish in first place, leave a good impression by playing a good match and maintain the rhythm we’ve had lately. ».

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