Toril: "We can aim for first place in the group and that means beating Celtic"

Alberto Toril and Weir spoke at the press conference ahead of Real Madrid's Women's Champions League matchday five clash with Celtic (Wednesday, 9pm CET). The Madrid coach said: "We realise that we have already qualified but we want to compete for top spot in the group. It's going to be a complicated match, playing late and in the cold. We have some players who are struggling and we'll have to see how today's training session goes. But in general, we're looking forward to a good game, to getting a win and to being able to play for first place here at home".
"I think we're having a very good Champions League campaign. We have three wins in a row, and the momentum is positive. We can aim for first place in the group and that means winning tomorrow, which will be difficult, and then playing at home in front of our fans. We're doing very well and the players are confident. We're playing very good football, so we have to carry on in the same vein and keep improving. We know we have a good opportunity".
The difficulties of the match
"We're looking to put in a good performance. We know the conditions will be difficult. They're a very aggressive team and, despite being knocked out, they're going to try to play well in front of their home fans. Finishing second is not the same as finishing first. They play with a medium-low block. We have to try to find space between the lines to hurt them and stay focused".
The team playing at a high level
"Sometimes it's difficult to prepare for matches because we don't have time. We prioritise the players' rest and we often do individual work. But we have other tools to arrive in the best possible shape, the players are of a very high level and are very intelligent. We're used to competing every three days and our standard is always high".
A long-awaited return
"Athenea is a very competitive player and very committed. She pushed the deadlines and has worked very hard to be with the team early. She's ready to play and help us. We have to be a bit careful now and see when she can come in and get some minutes. But I believe she's ready and you'll see her at any moment. She's a key player for us".
Weir: ‘It's special to play in Scotland’
"The team is doing well and we're excited to be going into these two games. We enjoy the competition and that's important. It's going to be tough to get a win, they have their strengths, they're playing at home and they'll have the backing of their fans. It'll be a challenge for us with the artificial turf and the weather. Celtic are a side that have done very well in women's football".
"It's special for me to play in Scotland and to play for Real Madrid in the Champions League is a dream I've had since I was a little girl. We will keep fighting to get first place. It'll be difficult, but it's exciting to visit Scotland".