Mexico City /
Cougars It has been a coming and going of good and bad moments in this Opening 2024. University started with three wins and a draw in its first four games that raised expectations, but then it chained three defeats in a row upon its return from the Leagues Cup and criticism came like an avalanche. Today, the situation has calmed down with another streak of victories -including the classic against América- and a draw on the difficult field of Toluca.
However, Lisandro Magallán He warns that in the final stretch of the championship, concentration must be at its maximum because any carelessness could cost him the direct ticket he has today. Pumas being sixth with 20 points.
In interview with MILLENNIUM–The Hobbythe Auriazul captain foresees a tough close with the games against Rayados, Cruz Azul and Chivas. “They are the most difficult games not only because of the rivals, but because It is the defining stage. Where you went wrong… there is no room for recovery“he stated.
And yes, Lisandro recognizes those marked ups and downs that Universidad has had this season. “It is very difficult to maintain a constant level for a long period. We started very well, but the Leagues Cup did not give us the results we wanted, and that affected us when we returned to the Mexican League. The important thing is that we understand that in those moments we are neither the best nor the worst. “In sport you have to live with mistakes and understand that other teams also prepare well.”
But in such a volatile tournament, the Argentine defender does not rule out that Pumas could be a candidate if it reaches the final phase at a good time. “The goal is to fight at the top and be champions“, he stated with determination. However, he acknowledged that they must first secure a place in the Liguilla. “It is a world apart, and whoever is finer in the details will surely achieve victory.”
Accustomed to criticism
The Pumas environment is no stranger to the pressure of its fans, which tends to be especially hard on the coach in power when the results are not good. Despite the chants calling for the departure of Gustavo Lema In some sectors of the stands, Magallán assures that the group remains focused on work.
“The only thing we have to do is work and give the best version of each other, as individuals and as a team. We know that the coach is the focus of attention, but we accept that responsibility. The moment you decide to sign with a team like Pumas , you know you have to win. When things don’t go well, people are going to express themselves, and it’s good that they do,” he added.
Since his arrival at Pumas, Lisandro Magallán feels satisfied with his performance, although he recognizes that there is room for improvement. “I always tried to be professional and give my best. I’m satisfied, but I don’t want it to end here. I want to continue improving to return the trust that the club and the fans have given me,” he expressed.
Regarding the locker room, the Argentine praised the atmosphere within the team: “We have a very good group, not only because of the quality of the players, but because of the atmosphere there is. Despite the fact that some do not add up to the minutes they want, they always maintain competitiveness, which helps us grow as a team.
Lysander’s self-control
Magallán has shown a significant improvement in his behavior on the field of play. In the Clausura he accumulated six yellow cardswhich led him to lose games due to suspension; however, In this tournament, he has only received two cardsa change he attributes to personal reflection.
“I understood that I couldn’t continue receiving so many cards because Pumas signed me to play, not to be suspended,” he said. And it’s not that he has changed his style of play, but that he has adjusted his decision-making at critical moments. “I try to make fouls that do not expose me so much to the referee showing a yellow card.“he explained.
Recognized for his ability to motivate his teammates, Magallán spoke about his role as a leader, which he considers part of his character. “I always played like that, with the same internal motivation. Now I am externalizing that motivation towards my colleagues.“, he explained. For the Buenos Aires defender, leadership is not something forced, but rather a natural manifestation of his personality. “The internal struggle of demanding more from myself, of not giving up, is something that I always tell myself, and today it is also true. I tell my colleagues,” he shared.
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