Toulouse faced a bitter defeat in Lisbon against Benfica, as Ángel Di María’s late penalty secured a 2-1 victory for the Portuguese side. The Violets, who were just a penalty away from clinching a draw, now find themselves with a one-goal deficit as they head into the next leg.
In the aftermath of the intense encounter, Moussa Diarra, speaking from the mixed zone, conveyed a positive outlook despite the disappointing result.
The Toulouse defender acknowledged the challenging circumstances but emphasized the team’s resilience.
Diarra stated, “We are lucky that the match does not last 90 minutes, but 180. There is only one goal difference. We just need to win at home to advance. We’re still in it.”
Despite being considered the underdogs, Toulouse has consistently defied expectations in European competitions, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level.
Diarra addressed the skepticism surrounding their capabilities, stating, “I’m not going to do the Calimero, but a lot of people didn’t believe in us.
Benfica is a great team, a great club. On paper, there may be no photo. But we don’t come with this outsider spirit.
If we are here, having taken 11 points during the group stage, it is because we deserved it.”
As Toulouse prepares for the return leg, Diarra’s confidence in the team’s potential remains unwavering.
The focus now shifts to the upcoming match at the Stadium, where Toulouse aims to overturn the deficit and secure a spot in the next stage of the competition.
