Pablo Zegarra: "The defeat against Melgar has been a tremendous blow for the entire team" [VIDEO]

Sporting Cristal's defeat against Melgar leaves them with little chance of winning the Clausura tournament

Sporting Cristal not only needed a victory against Melgar to have any chance of winning the Clausura tournament, but also to end their four-game winless streak. Despite that, coach Pablo Zegarra faced the situation.

The coach of the team explained that the defeat against Melgar at the Alberto Gallardo stadium was a hard blow for the whole squad. Only a miracle could bring them back into the fight for the Clausura tournament.

"There is a very strong pain. The defeat against Melgar at our home ground has been a setback for all of us. Maybe we have been confused in getting positive results. We just want to break this bad streak and achieve good results," he said.

Peru in the playoffs: Who is New Zealand's 'Kiwi Messi'? [VIDEO]

The coach explained that Carlos Lobatón wanted to play in this match, despite his injury (pubalgia). He showed great commitment in training. However, he preferred not to risk him. "Carlos is an important player for us. He wanted to play this Wednesday, but unfortunately he wasn't ready to make a comeback," he said.

With this new defeat, Sporting Cristal is in second-last position in the Clausura tournament with five points. The team has only managed to win once, against San Martín in round 3. They will host Sport Rosario at home on Saturday, October 21.

José Luis Chilavert praised Pedro Gallese, Paolo Guerrero, and Ricardo Gareca

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Peru will face New Zealand on November 10. (Video: YouTube)