Guilherme: Be it not for the fans, this victory just could not be!

One of the heroes of the quarterfinal game with Rubin goalkeeper Marinato Guilherme thanks the fans for their support.

– How difficult was it for you to replace Abaev after he got injured?
– I had strange feelings. Usually goalkeepers don't get hurt. It was unusual to start playing without a warm-up. It's a pity Abaev got injured, but a substitute should always be ready to come out and play.

– What did you feel at that moment?
– Of course my appearance was not planned, but I felt confident from the beginning. Of course, I did feel a bit nervous, but at such moments it's vital to concentrate on the game. Then it will be alright.

– After Dmitry Tarasov’s pass back, you failed to trap the ball. An awkward moment...
– When I let the ball roll under my foot, I felt frightened. It was going goalwards, and could have gone inside. But when it didn’t happen, I felt that we’d win.

– What did Miodrag Bozovic say in half-time?
– He chose not to focus on the fact that all substitutions were made before the break. Bozovic said we had to play and hold on. Everybody understood it was necessary to be concentrated.

The extra time was an advantage to Rubin because we were very tired. But the main thing is that we understood we had to hold on and be sure of our strength. We knew it was necessary to win.

– What emotions did you feel before the penalty shootout?
– I was self-assured. Especially when I looked at the fans. They gave us their support at that moment.

Then I understood they were always going to be with us, and with me. They are real fans! Be it not for them, this victory just could not be!

Today was the most important moment in my career. I’ve been sidelined for a while, but the fans are still with me. The believe in me! When I heard them singing my name, I thought I’d stop at least two shots!