At the press conference ahead of the semi-final in the TOTO KNVB Beker Peter Bosz emphasized once again how important the cup is to him. The head coach is focusing completely on the midweek cup game. 'We are in the semifinals and playing at home; no more motivation is needed.'
These are busy times and you are still active on three fronts. So is such a free weekend nice?
"We've had a double program every week since January. It was kind of nice to be able to analyze things and pick up energy toward the big, important block of matches coming up next."
How did the selection come out of the game with Juventus?
"It was 120 minutes in the [UEFA] Champions League, you feel that. That's why it was nice that we could work well on recovery over the weekend. Overall, the boys came out well. Obviously, Ricardo Pepi, Malik Tillman and Sergiño Dest are not here. The latter two are doing well. Furthermore, Esmir Bajraktarević will not be there tomorrow."
How do you look at the acquisition Lucas Pérez?
"He has trained with us once now and will finish his second training session today, but if you look at his track record, you can say he has enough experience and absolute quality. I hope he can help us in the final months of the season."
You play two games against Go Ahead Eagles this week. Which match is the most important?
"The next game is always the most important. When you play in the top, you want to compete for all the prizes. At the training sessions I see that we are on the right track with sharpness and concentration. We want to reach the final and we know what is needed to do that. After that, we'll focus on the league again."
How do you view the Deventers?
"I think what they are doing is clever and the club has my sympathy because I am from the area. They are seventh now and the football they are playing is fun to watch. I enjoy it."
You give the impression that you really want to win the cup, is that true?
"The cup has become something very beautiful in the Netherlands with the tradition of playing it in De Kuip, where it is always sold out. I've already had the opportunity to be in the cup final a few times, you don't give that away just like that. That's great. We're in the semifinals, the final is on the line and you're playing at home; how much more motivation do you need? When you're that close, you have to take that chance."