Soler after 150th appearance: "We are going to fight to get into Europe"

Carlos Soler played his 150th game for Valencia CF in the match against RCD Espanyol, and was able to mark it with a victory at Mestalla. The midfielder spoke to VCF Media after the game to reflect on his team’s performance and hopes of getting into the Europa League.

“We knew that Espanyol were going to give us a very difficult game. Despite the fact that they haven't been picking up points in recent games, they have been competing. They've suffered a lot of defeats, but they showed here in the second half what they can do. They had several chances and came close to equalising, but it was important for us to win today. The team needed it. With this win, we are fighting to get into the European spots, and on Sunday we have to go to Seville and win.”

The win, plus a defeat for Getafe against Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad’s goalless draw with Sevilla, keeps Valencia CF in the fight for Europe heading into the last day of the season. Soler was resolute about the chance to compete for a spot in the Europa League.

“We knew that it was going to be difficult. We were four points off, with six in play. However, we've got to the last matchday in with a chance. Getafe lost and Real Sociedad drew, so we have a chance. We still don't have our fate in our own hands, and it's tough, but we are Valencia CF and we have to always be professional. We have to fight for the maximum that we can achieve, and right now that's the Europa League places. It isn't in our hands, but we have to do our job, then wait and see.”

At the age of just 23, reaching the 150 game milestone is quite the achievement for the VCF Academy product.

“Everything goes very quickly. A short time ago I was celebrating 50 games for the club, then 100, and now 150. I'm very happy with that.

“Since I first came into the first team I've tried to be at the club and the coaches' service, as well as help my teammates. I try to do my best to contribute and to help the team. Today's game was difficult, but we took the three points, which were essential. We are going to fight to get into Europe.”