Juan Francisco Palencia debuted with a goalless draw as the coach of Mazatlán FC, the new team in Mexican soccer. The Sinaloa team faced Tigres in the opening match of the Copa por México, a game played at Estadio Akron.
All 22 players on the Mazatlan roster had the opportunity to participate in this historic match for the Sinaloa franchise.
"My idea was for everyone to play. In these two weeks my intention was for everyone to have participation to get into the rhythm of the game. Everyone did their job, their game, we created goal opportunities and first-hand I am happy with them," said Palencia.
On the other hand, the 'Gatillero' confirmed that despite rumors placing Sebastián Sosa out of the Mazatlan goal, the Argentine goalkeeper will continue to play for the newly founded Mazatlán FC.
"Regarding Sebas Sosa, he has a contract with us, and for now, I count on him. We have completed the squad 100% and we are just waiting for the addition of 'Mago' Valdivia"
Palencia commented that he is pleased with the team he has formed in these few days leading Mazatlán, especially in the match against Tigres.
"The players don't surprise me that they played this match. I am happy with their ambition, their desire to transcend and for Mazatlán to be born great. It didn't surprise me that they played on an equal footing with Tigres"
Mazatlán's next match will be against Atlas in Round 2 of the Copa por México.
Luis Quiñones: We Saw a Serious Rival in Mazatlán
The Colombian Luis Quiñones highlighted the fact that in the match against Mazatlán many players from Tigres showed good physical form by playing the full 90 minutes and asserted that they will now fight for victories in the upcoming matches in the Copa Por México.
"One positive thing is that many players completed the 90 minutes, which was expected to be difficult due to injuries, but we see that the team is physically prepared, they took care of themselves, and tactically and technically we are working on it day by day. I think the result is positive," he said at the end of the match between these teams, played at Estadio Akron.
Quiñones Stressed Mazatlán's Attitude
The Colombian Luis Quiñones pointed out that the Mazatlán team showed seriousness and that the felines are approaching the tournament in the same way, so they will seek a good result in their next match.
"Teams come to win, we know that everyone wants to win, we saw a serious rival, and we are also taking it very seriously, the upcoming matches must be approached in the same way. I think the coach may make changes (for the next match), I don't know, but the matches must be faced with seriousness," he added.