Pellegrini praises Malaga performance

Malaga head coach Manuel Pellegrini was rapt that his side defied the doubters and earned UEFA Champions League qualification.

Jose Salomon Rondon was on hand four minutes after halftime to score the only goal of the match in Malaga’s 1-0 win over Sporting Gijon, a result that ensured the winners finished fourth and Gijon were relegated.

It was a convincing performance by Malaga, one where Ruud van Nistelrooy was also denied on two occasions from close range, and a result that was enough for Malaga to qualify for the Champions League, ahead of fifth-placed Atletico Madrid.

“My players are really happy,” Pellegrini said.

“We’ve achieved our goal. Many people thought that qualifying for Europa League was enough, but we didn’t.

“We wanted to prove that we could achieve many things by playing good (football).

“I give plenty of credit to my squad. There was a time when we didn’t get good away results despite playing really well. I am very happy for the way we’ve hit the target.

Pellegrino believes his team achieved the result in the right manner.

“In my opinion, the end doesn’t justify the means,” Pellegrini said.

“This team has always been loyal to its style, we’ve given a good joy to our fans and we’ve had fewer bookings than the rest of the teams.

“In the past some decisions from the referees’ didn’t go our way, but instead of pressurising the referee we focused on qualifying for Champions League.

“I say thanks to the crowd,” Pellegrini said.

“They’ve been supporting us regardless the score.”