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Martínez: "We knew it would be difficult"

The coach's reaction to a 0-1 win in the Copa del Rey

Diego Martínez acknowledged after the 0-1 win over CA El Paso that he had been expecting the tough test given to him by the Canary Islanders in the Copa del Rey.

“We all knew it would be difficult for us to adapt and have a good rhythm. In the first half we were in control and we made it difficult for the opponents to have chances. In the second part we were the better team," said the coach.

He also reminded journalists that “Nico Melamed had the first opportunity of the game, shortly after kickoff, and that would have opened things up against opponents who, I insist, were always going to make it very difficult for us. That's how it was and we have to congratulate them too."

"The result deserves credit, because you can see the results that occur in the Copa del Rey. They are games that always take a lot to win."

He also made special mention of the CA El Paso fans, who joined in RCD Espanyol's 21st-minute round of applause in memory of Dani Jarque.

"On behalf of the whole team, I would like to thank them for the great gesture they had in the 21st minute. That speaks of their greatness as fans and as a club. This is a very beautiful place and one that has suffered a lot, and Espanyol were able to participate in a game that was exciting for everyone."