Alves proud of Valencia progress

Valencia goalkeeper Diego Alves has expressed his satisfaction with his team’s Europa League progression at the expense of PSV Eindhoven.

Valencia recorded a 4-2 win in the first leg against PSV and held the Eredivisie club to a 1-1 draw during the return fixture in Eindhoven on Thursday, much to the delight of Brazilian Alves.

“We worked really well defensively, and in attack we did tremendously,” Alves told the UEFA website.

“PSV are a very good side, and with those fans behind them they are tough opponents,”

“During the game they got stronger and stronger which made it a very difficult night, and I’m happy to have qualified.”

Alves, 26, played a key role in his side’s success with some crucial saves, and was pleased with his individual performance.

“When an opponent is on the attack, you prepare yourself for the idea that the cross might be delivered well and when the header comes in you simply throw yourself at the ball,” he said.

“I managed a good save and it helped the team that we went in at the break without conceding. That pleased me.”

In Friday’s draw for the final stages of the competition, Valencia where selected to face Dutch opposition again in the quarter-finals, in the form of AZ Alkmaar.