The return fixture of the Europa league quarter final will be held at the Estadio Balaídos. From the outside, the stadium appears futuristic, especially on one side which is empty due to the construction of a new stand but, on the inside, it looks like a classic football stadium in the middle of a residential area. It’s a place where SC are hoping to make club history and reach the semi-finals of the Europa League.

Last week, the team put themselves in a great position by winning 3-0 in the first leg. “I have a great desire to reach the semi-final,” said Julian Schuster in the press conference before the game in northern Spain. However, SCF’s head coach reminded those in attendance of FC Barcelona’s second leg match in the Champions League, where they almost turned around a 2-0 deficit from their first leg game against Atletico Madrid. “Whoever turned their TV on yesterday knows exactly how quickly a game can turn on its head.”

“We can block out the noise”

The stadium in the small harbour town of Vigo has allocated 1,200 spots for the travelling fans on Thursday evening. The SC supporters are sure to fill this capacity and create a fantastic atmosphere. Still, with one eye on his side’s performance in the reverse fixture, the head coach noted, “The boys shouldn’t let themselves be intimidated by the atmosphere and what’s going on in the stadium.”

Lienhart added to his head coach’s remarks. “It’s definitely not a disadvantage that one side of the ground is missing,” said Lienhart, referring to the open space behind one of the goals in the stadium, “But I think that the fans will still be in full voice here – we’ll be able to block it out, though.”

Manzambi travels to Vigo

Lienhart, who played for Real Madrid before joining SC and, as a result, is an aficionado of all things Spain, was excited about returning to the country: “I always look forward to coming back to Spain – I still feel a connection here.” During the press conference ahead of the clash against Celta, the 29-year-old emphasised the “good performance” from the first leg. That being said, he stressed that, “Tomorrow, it’s not going to be an easy game in a passionate stadium. We’ve got to be on our A game here, as well, but I can’t wait.”

Johan Manzambi has also made the journey to Spain. After sustaining a knock to his calf in the Bundesliga match against 1. FSV Mainz 05, the Swiss international was able to take part in the final training session before the game, and the midfielder is ready for the clash against Celta Vigo. After the final whistle, hopefully Julian Schuster’s wish will have come true.

Photo: SC Freiburg