Zaragoza vs Osasuna preivew - Mendilibar warning for Osasuna
Posted Saturday, March 17, 2012 by PA
Osasuna coach Jose Luis Mendilibar feels the difference between his team and Real Zaragoza is not as great as the Primera Division table would suggest.
Zaragoza go into the game at the Estadio La Romareda rooted to the bottom of the league, nine points from safety.
Osasuna, meanwhile, are riding high in sixth and chasing a European berth after last weekend's 2-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao.
But Mendilibar told the club's website: "These are rare situations - it is rare that Osasuna have taken so many points at this stage of the season and just as odd that Zaragoza have taken so few.
"I do not think there is much difference between the two teams and therefore we cannot think that our job is already done.
"That's one of the fears that we have - we cannot think that, without effort, the game is won. We can be our own worst enemies."
This is the first of 12 games Zaragoza have left in their relegation battle.
They have won two of their last five matches and Mendilibar can see them picking up more points yet.
"For Zaragoza, it is the last chance to get close to safety," Mendilibar said.
"They have it hard, but I'm sure they will win games. Just hopefully not on Saturday.
"I hope my team is competitive and that they will complicate life for Zaragoza from the beginning.
"We must create uncertainty, compete well and be strong."
Zaragoza's on-loan midfielder Apono shares Mendilibar's belief that the Aragonese side still have plenty to play for.
"There is still hope," Apono told www.realzaragoza.com.
"We must fight all together and try to save the team. While there is still a chance, I will fight for it (survival).
"It is not unreasonable that we could win two games and close the gap on our rivals. If we succeed, we will see everything differently."
Zaragoza coach Manolo Jiminez is confident his players are ready to give everything to the cause in their fight to beat the drop.
He said: "They look me in the eye and tell me they are committed and I believe them, as they are professionals.
"From there, what we have to do is look for solutions."
Photos
More»
Meet the stunning Brazilian bikini beauties
Saturday September 28 2024
Glamorous footballer Madelene Wright puts on busty display
Saturday September 28 2024
Former Man Utd stars are still playing in 2024
Saturday September 28 2024
Your Say