Abu Dhabi: Pachuca coach Diego Alonso is more worried about the mental exhaustion rather than the physical of their third-place match against hosts Al Jazira on Saturday. The action starts at 6pm at Zayed Sports City Stadium.
“We are trying to recover after playing for 240 minutes of football in less than six days,” said Alonso, adding that there might be a few changes in the line-up depending on the condition of some of his players. “It takes a lot out of you physically but we are also tired mentally.
“We needed time to recover but hopefully, we will be able to get the needed full energy and commitment from the players to get a good result,” said Alonso.
The coach was of the view that his team will have to focus on the entire Jazira team and not just individuals if they have to get across the line.
“I would rather not focus on any single player of Al Jazira,” he said. “I understand they have three good players up front who are quick, especially on the wings. It will also depend on what tactics they opt to take against us. I think we will have to control those three quick players more.”
Pachuca’s big signing Keisuke Honda has failed to impress in this tournament and has been clearly far from his normal self. A foot injury has added to his woes but he is unlikely to miss the crucial outing.
“Honda, in the entire tournament, has had difficulties but he has been playing,” said Alonso. “He is not at his best but we should be able to play tomorrow.”
Alonso’s team are four-time participants in the tournament but have never left with a medal. It’s a record Alonso wants to get straight this time round.
“I think for all of us it is special. We started from zero and then went to become Mexican Champions and playing against the best team here is special. It will be best to finish as the third-best club team in the world,” said Alonso.
Pachuca defender Emmanuel Garcia said the team was ready to give everything to clinch third place.
“As a team it has been a very good experience and on the physical side we feel great,” he said. “There have been two extra-time matches but we, especially the coach, has been able to manage the situation well. We know what we have to do. Take enough rest in order to arrive to the match in the best physical condition.”
