Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Marking Conceicao’s first game in charge, Milan came from behind to win 2-1 in Riyadh on Friday night.
“Football is passion and excitement, these are great moments,” Conceicao told Sport Mediaset.
“They deserved this win for the second half performance, but in the first I saw the same type of Milan that played a few weeks ago, with the players doubtful in defence, too tired moving the ball around, getting the timing of the press wrong. .
“At half time, we changed a few things, looked each other in the eyes and the players had to realize what they needed to do in order to win the game. They needed to do what we had prepared, then it’s my responsibility if we lose 2-0 or 3-0, so they were really brave in the second half and it was completely different to the first.
“I’m happy, but we haven’t done anything yet, we’re in the Final and we have to prepare to play Inter.”
Turning things around after halftime, Conceicao said: “During those five minutes in the locker room, I certainly didn’t give the team kisses and hugs. To be honest, I got quite angry, because they didn’t do what I had asked for or prepare. I see a group of players who are humble, at times without some determination to go further, but that can come with time.
“Players need a kind word, but also a harsh word sometimes. I’ll be honest, I’m not the nicest coach who likes to hug and reassure my players, I tend to get angry more than anything else.
“The important thing for this squad is to work hard, have a lot of positive energy and try to achieve their objective together, because they have the quality. I’m happy that the group received my message, accepted that I’m not a coach who smiles so much, because I’m not here to make friends, but I’m here to win.”
