With one preseason game in Mexico in the books and a couple more to go before the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals matchup with Pachuca, the coaching staff has an idea of how its starting lineup will look on February 24.
“We have a better idea who the starting guys are,” explained head coach Frank Klopas. “But, there are a few guys with some injuries, so we will see where we are in the next few days.”
One of those guys returning from injury is Ignacio Piatti and despite some rust, looks very focused.
“There were some very good moments in the Cruz Azul game and you can see the difference he can make,” added Klopas. “It’s just a matter of time and full games for him to get his game shape and timing back.”
Although Klopas knew what he had in Piatti, what he’s seen so far from his new centre backs pleased him as well.
“Our ability to communicate and play out of the back is really good. We have some good depth and it should get better with every game.”
Now that the pieces are falling into place, the team will look to focus on their opponents tactically in training.
“We need to work on our transition game in both faces because Pachuca is good in transition. They have pace out wide, so we have to keep our shape as their backs like to push up the field. We need to be disciplined and good with the ball in key moments.”
