The job's done though the score could have been better
Petr was glad the Blues managed to fulfill their duties and advanced into the Europa League semifinals. They may have been defeated 2-3 by Kazan, however that was still sufficient due to their win at home.
"The fact we've advanced is what really matters. We did want to finish off with a better result but who cares," said Petr after the quarterfinals replay, having shown off his goalkeeping skills to the fullest once again.
"We scored right away and it looked like we had everything under control. Beside the opportunity they had right before the interval they'd given us no reason to worry. Then eventually they did score and even though we retaliated immediately things took a turn for the worse," admitted Petr.
Kazan went on to score two more goals. "They really went all-in toward the end. We made a couple of crucial mistakes and honestly I'd say we were lacking a bit of energy, perhaps because of our busy schedule and jet lags. Sometimes it all suddenly just piles up. They had more strength left in the second half and dramatised everything, although I guess we still would have advanced even if we'd lost 4-2."
Petr refused to blame the synthetic surface Chelsea are not used to. "The ball creates more friction on it but that was the same for both teams," stated Petr, who had been wearing leggings under his shorts, which he does not usually do. "I didn't want to burn myself, that's the only reason."
Chelsea were able to save certain players for Sunday's FA Cup game against Manchester City. "That was more than important. We know what kind of team we're up against and the fact that the manager let some vital players rest could prove to be essential. It's not easy to be battling on three fronts," said Petr
Sunday's FA Cup semifinal will take place at Wembley. "I'm really looking forward to that game. We'll be playing current League title holders and we'll be doing our best to win for a second year running. It's somewhat of a mini final but if we're looking to win we're going to have to deal with anyone in our way," admitted Petr.
He takes pride in his incredible stats in the FA Cup and he would very much like to retain them. "So far I've never actually lost, I only once got eliminated during a penalty shoot-out. I hope the upcoming game doesn't change that."
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