Spalletti happy with first-leg win

Zenit St Petersburg coach Luciano Spalletti was pleased with his side after they took the advantage in their Champions League tie with Benfica.

In freezing conditions in Saint Petersburg, the Russian side fought back from a goal down in a tense opening leg, scoring through Roman Shirokov in the 88th minute to win it 3-2.

Benfica were unlucky to concede late after fighting back to 2-2 in what was an entertaining tussle despite the appalling conditions.

“It was a nervous match,” Spalletti said.

“My players showed really good skill. They showed a lot of heart to win the match in such a grave situation.”

“However they did exactly what we decided to do ahead of the match. We won deservedly tonight.”

Visiting manager Jorge Jesus was understandably frustrated with the result given Oscar Cardozo had sensationally pulled Benfica level less than a minute before Shirokov’s winner.

“It was really tough to play here. We allowed Zenit to score three goals, that means we defended poorly this evening. It’s a pity,” Jesus said.

But with the return leg at the familiar Estadio da Luz and with two away goals in the bag, Jesus was still full of belief.

“Nothing is finished yet. The place in the next round will be decided in the return match. I think it will be even more tough.”