Igor Matanović: “It was 34,000 against 11 today”

SC Freiburg’s striker Igor Matanović thinks Freiburg’s win over Braga was never in doubt because of the incredible home support.

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SC Freiburg became the third Bundesliga club to reach the UEFA Europa League final in the last five seasons after their 4-3 aggregate win over Braga. Igor Matanović has scored in the previous ties against Genk and Celta Vigo, and he was also lively in both legs against the Portuguese outfit.

"When we went out to the warm-up, I knew we'd win the game,” said the Croat striker in his post-match interview. "We played 34,000 against eleven today. I instantly knew we were going to win the game," added Matanović before applauding Noah Atubolu for his string of saves late in the game.

"They have an unbelievably good squad, with a very high quality,” Matanović then briefly previewed the final against Aston Villa while the rather reserved goalkeeper was standing in front of him with only a few words to the media.

“They're playing a very good Premier League season. We need to prepare ourselves even better. But we can first celebrate and enjoy this moment because we’ve made history!” added the striker before Atubolu stopped the interview so that they could join their teammates in the celebration.