Real Betis goalkeeper Rui Silva insists nothing is impossible as he tries to overturn a three-goal deficit in their Europa League clash with Manchester United.
United lead 4-1 from the first leg in Manchester but Silva, who opened the scoring ahead of Claudio Bravo, believes the Spanish side still have a chance of reaching the quarter-finals ahead of Thursday’s second leg in Sevilla.
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“We know that nothing is impossible in football,” Silva told ESPN. “There are many examples of these competitions coming back in the playoffs. It is true that we have a difficult task ahead of us, we have to be very effective both in defense and in attack, but we cannot stop believing.
“We’re playing at home, our fans are supporting us and even if it’s not enough to go through in the end, we want to make a good impression.”
Silva has shared Betis’ No.1 duties with former Manchester City goalkeeper Bravo this season. If he starts the second leg against United, the 29-year-old will be up against his friend Bruno Fernandes, who was criticized in the first leg against Real Betis after Liverpool’s 7-0 defeat. days ago.
“Bruno is a great friend and someone I look up to both on and off the pitch,” added Silva.
“It’s definitely exciting to have the opportunity to play against the best. As well as being a fantastic player, he has a great personality. For example, shortly after joining United, he was named one of the team captains. I mean. a lot.”
After a 4-1 defeat at Old Trafford, Real Betis drew 1-1 with Villarreal on Sunday. Manuel Pellegrini’s side are fifth in LaLiga and looking to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
“I want to help the club reach its goal of playing in European competitions again next season,” added Silva.
“It would be great for the club to reach the Champions League. Last year we came close to qualifying. But we are not obsessed with it.
“It’s been a very enjoyable season so far. Although I have only played the vast majority of games in La Liga, I have gained the consistency and consistency I need to feel confident and help the team.”
