"We expect a very different match from what we have faced so far. For that reason, we believe we need to make both tactical and lineup changes," explained the Basque coach, who expects to face "a very aggressive team" that "with the ball is one of the best in the division, both individually and collectively."
Ibai Gómez therefore stressed that he expects a lengthy contest that could be decided in the second half: "We have planned for a fairly long game. I think it will be a very physical match with plenty of duels, and it could be decided in the second half, when it becomes less physical and there is more space." "We are facing a different context from what we have experienced so far," added the Bilbao-born coach, who will only be without Ander Herrera for the trip to Ibiza.
If they secure all three points, Real Zaragoza will make it four consecutive wins and move into a privileged position in the table. "This week we have had to work on ensuring that praise does not weaken us, that we keep our feet on the ground and that we are aware that every weekend will bring extremely difficult matches," emphasized the Zaragoza coach, who also said that taking 12 points from 12 is exciting and "a statistic that brings you closer to your objective for the end of the season."
THE OPPONENT: IBIZA
Real Zaragoza will therefore face an Ibiza side that has so far won every home game it has played this season, beating Rayo Majadahonda and Sant Andreu. "They are a good team with a great coach who has already earned promotion in this division. It will be an attractive match for the spectators because I believe we are, without a doubt, two of the best teams in the division," Ibai Gómez analyzed.
The Zaragoza coach has pictured a match that, as he explained, could contain elements of the Paris Saint-Germain-Bayern Munich game played in the last edition of the Champions League, which ended 5-4. "There will be plenty of duels and, from there, a high level of precision and an understanding of what needs to be done will be required. I think it will be an interesting match, and there will be phases in which the context could resemble that game," Ibai Gómez said, referring to the historic clash played in the prestigious European competition.
