Malafeev wary of Gers threat
by Laurent Picard, 14 May 2008
Zenit St Petersburg goalkeeper Vyacheslav Malafeev has told setantasports.com that he would have preferred another opponent than Rangers in the Uefa Cup final.
The Gers have defied the critics to make it all the way to the Uefa Cup final and Malafeev feels their ‘special’ style could upset Zenit.
"I would have preferred another opponent because the Scottish play with a special system,” Malafeev told setantasports.com.
“They are not totally an attacking team and it forces us to pay maximum attention at every moment.
"The key to this match is to keep possession and to convert the first chance we get.
"The squad are very confident ahead of the final and we are pretty optimistic. I would bet on Zenit winning.”
Malafeev claims Zenit have taken confidence from putting out the likes of Marseille and Bayern Munich on the way to the final.
“After our adventure in this Uefa Cup, Zenit are now the most admired team which is sensational for this club,” said Malafeev.
"We are working without pressure and are very calm ahead of the final.
“We have a 50 percent chance to win the game, but personally I believe we play better football than Rangers.”
Malafeev does not believe Rangers hold an advantage due to the game being played in Manchester.
The North West of England is likely to resemble Glasgow on Wednesday, as Rangers fans descend on Manchester for the Uefa Cup final.
Rangers are likely to have the lion’s share of support at The City of Manchester Stadium, but Malafeev does not believe this will handicap Zenit.
"Playing in Manchester is not an advantage for the Scots, contrary to what they believe,” Malafeev said.
“We are used to playing in hostile atmospheres and Zenit also have supporters making the trip to England for the game.”
Zenit are coached by former Rangers boss Dick Advocaat and Malafeev is convinced this hands them an advantage.
“Lately our coach and Fernando (Ricksen) have told the squad some little secrets about Rangers’ players,” the keeper added. “It is interesting in order to avoid surprises during the game.
“Rangers are not as strong in attack as Zenit but they can cause us problems with their efficiency.
“It has been the key of their European trips this season. I have a good feeling ahead of the final.
“For me, this is the second key match of the season.
”First there was the game with Russia against England, in Moscow, and now there is the Uefa Cup final.”