Chus Mateo: “We want to do well in the cup and make our fans happy”
“We're looking forward to winning the cup”, said Tavares.
Chus Mateo and Tavares addressed the media ahead of their trip to Málaga to play in the Copa del Rey 2024. The Madrid coach said: "We're up against a side that doesn't let you play easily, they prevent ball circulation and defend very well. UCAM also score lots of points from the paint and are playing at an extraordinary level. We have to concentrate on playing our game".
"The pressure comes from what we put on ourselves. We want to do well in the Cup and make our fans happy. That's our pressure. We're ambitious and hungry to win. I know how difficult it is in a tournament where any of the eight teams could become champions".
Pre-Cup atmosphere
"If we consider the fact that we've played 50 games between Euroleague and League and lost only seven, I'd say that it's not a bad record overall. The momentum is important, but in the Cup you never know. We're happy with how we're doing things. This tournament can throw up surprises and coming into it one way or the other doesn't guarantee anything. We're focused on the first game".
Focus on UCAM
"We'd be making a mistake if we think past UCAM because they're a tough opponent and play a very strong level of basketball. We have to show respect to all our opponents because they have their own chances. We'll think about what's next when it's time".
The full squad
"My players are going to be motivated, the same as Murcia's players. I'm trying to plan the game to go out strong and at the top of our game. We have 16 players, including Llull and Tavares, who have improved. I'm counting on the whole squad now".
Tavares: "I didn't want to miss the Cup".
"The team that is the fittest and most focused this week will be the one that wins the Cup. We're looking forward to lifting it because last time we won it was in Malaga and we'll try to do it again there".
"We all want to play in this competition and I didn't want to miss it. I was afraid that I wouldn't make it in time, but the hard work by the coaching staff has allowed me to be at my best. The first step in the Cup is the most difficult because the opponent is fresh and excited. UCAM is a very physical team and we'll have to match their level in this area".
Hunger for trophies
"When you come to Madrid you know that there's pressure, but that's normal in a club like this. The Cup is a trophy that we want to win and we're looking forward to winning it and doing our best".