Tavares: "We're going to give our all out there on the court to bring the Cup back to Madrid"
"I'm really excited about the cup, we have to be focused and prepared," the centre explained.
Walter Tavares spoke to Realmadrid TV ahead of the Copa del Rey quarter-final debut against Baxi Manresa, which will be played this Friday at the Gran Canaria Arena (6:30pm CET): "I'm really excited about the Cup. It's also where I made a name for myself. I remember it fondly, going back to the islands is always something special and hopefully, we can lift the cup, which would be incredible for me."
"There is no greater motivation than the Copa del Rey. When it comes around it's like a new energy, you feel inside that something important is coming. You have to be on top form, try to lower your pulse rate to perform at your best and be prepared."
Keys
"You have to give 200% these days because the team that is best prepared physically and has a good level of concentration is going to win the Cup. If you lose focus, you're out. You have to be focused and prepared to give it your all."
Opposition
"I imagine a fast-paced game. They run a lot and so do we, we both feel comfortable that way."
Mentality
"Madrid never gives up. The objective is to win every title, no matter what stage we're at, we always have to look forward. Our strength is that we don't give up. We know there are games where we start with problems, but we have to be patient and play our game."
Message to the fans
"We can't wait to get to Las Palmas to give you something to be happy about. I hope you'll give us lots of support and lots of positive energy. We're going to give our all out there on the court so that you're happy and we can bring the Cup back to Madrid."