Rubi: 'CD Leganés ran into a UD almería side brimming with confidence'
The Rojiblancos' head coach explains his tactical switch and reflects on dominant win over the Pepineros
In a post-match press conference, UD Almería head coach Rubi discussed his tactical decision to employ a 5-man defence, revealing that one of the key reasons was to catch CD Leganés off guard: 'CD Leganés ran into a UD Almería side brimming with confidence,' he said.
The Rojiblancos' gaffer emphasised that the difference in the two teams' current form was evident in the match, largely thanks to his side's game plan. When asked about the decision to deploy a back five, Rubi explained: 'We've been working on it during the week so that players like Arribas and Embarba were closer to the opponents' goal and further away from their usual defensive duties. We also knew about CD Leganés' potential and we wanted to play with the element of surprise.'
Reflecting on the match, the Catalan was pleased with how the tactical shift worked, noting: 'The first half was more evenly matched, but in the second half we knew we'd find more space and opted for counter-attacks.' He also acknowledged that the Pepineros had their moments, adding: 'It's true they deserved to score a goal, but they haven't had much luck. They're definitely a good team with a good head coach.'
Rubi concluded by emphasising the confidence his side is playing with at the moment: 'Right now, it’s extremely difficult for any opponents to beat us.'