Costa confident after AZ thrashing

Valencia midfielder Tino Costa said Thursday’s 4-0 thrashing of AZ in the Europa League has given his side much-needed confidence.

Unai Emery’s side cruised past the Dutch club to record a 5-2 aggregate win to reach the competition’s semi-finals where they will now meet fellow Spanish club Atletico Madrid.

However, Valencia must now turn their attentions back to the league where they come up against Real Madrid on Sunday, and Costa said he is sure his team-mates will go into the game in a better shape of mind due to their recent goal haul.

“We needed the win individually and collectively. Sunday’s game will be different to Thursday, but the result gives us confidence,” Costa told Marca.

The Argentine midfielder then dismissed suggestions his side would be looking for revenge in their Europa League semi after exiting the competition at the quarter-final stage two seasons ago to the Madrid side.

“Before the Atletico Madrid game there are too many things to think about and we cannot lose concentration,” Costa said.

Costa has made 32 appearances in all competitions for Valencia this term, scoring seven times.