Rafael Nel: Second leg? The team is very confident indeed.

Rafael Nel, in statements in the mixed zone at Alvalade, after the defeat against Arsenal (0-1), in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.

Hope of turning the tie around

The team is quite confident, especially since it was a 1-0 result. I think the tie is still open and the team feels confident. That’s the most important thing.

What happened to concede a goal right at the end?

Lack of concentration? I don’t think so. I think we played well and created some difficulties for Arsenal. Unfortunately, in the final minutes we ended up conceding a goal, but at 1-0 the tie is still open and we will play it in London.

Playing alongside Luis Suarez up front

Yes, the coach gives me some pointers, even Luis, and even Fotis, they help me. That’s why I’m comfortable playing alongside Luis Suárez and with the team.

Will Arsenal’s central defensive pairing be one of the best at the moment?

Whether they’re the best pairs, I don’t know, but I think I can always learn something. I think I can always improve a bit, see the points where I wasn’t so good and try to adapt to these difficulties.