The head coach highlighted the performance against Monterrey, regretted not having won, and is already thinking about the crucial match against Inter on the final matchday
River drew 0-0 with Monterrey in the second matchday of Group E of the Club World Cup. The point earned keeps it as the leader of the group, although a challenging finish lies ahead, since in the final matchday it will face Inter Milan, while Rayados will play against Urawa Red Diamonds.
The match left mixed feelings for Marcelo Gallardo, who appreciated the level shown but regretted the lack of efficiency: "It's a shame, we could have won the match. We had chances and we deserved it. Still, I'm pleased with the team's performance".
Gallardo quedó conforme con el rendimiento de River
Regarding the second half, he was blunt: "Monterrey didn't shoot at our goal. We left a very good impression that we couldn't crown. We're optimistic, we see the glass as half full, and we'll go all out for qualification".
However, Gallardo won't be able to count on Kevin Castaño, Enzo Pérez, and Giuliano Galoppo, who are suspended for the decisive match against the Italian side. "In these competitions, it's common to lose players. We'll see how we prepare. Everyone will be key for the match against Inter. They have to be ready", the coach explained.
Gallardo deberá mover varias piezas en el mediocampo
Finally, the most successful coach in the club's history reflected on the magnitude of the tournament and the role of South American teams: "It's a world competition where no team comes just for a stroll. We all come to compete and get excited. Each one approaches it as they wish, but in South America, we experience it in the way everyone sees".
He concluded with a perspective on global competitiveness: "There are teams that, due to their financial power, can sign better players, but supremacy must be demonstrated on the field. Football has become more balanced worldwide".
