Pellegrini deflated by battling draw

SL Benfica came from behind to claim a point against Villarreal CF in UEFA Champions League Group D. Juan Román Riquelme broke the deadlock from the penalty spot with 18 minutes remaining, stroking the ball past Benfica's 19-year-old substitute goalkeeper Rui Nereu, who was making his debut. But Villarreal coach Manuel Luis Pellegrini was left to rue a moment of individual brilliance from Manuel Fernandes, who volleyed the ball in within minutes to leave the section wide open at the halfway stage.

Manuel Luis Pellegrini, Villarreal coach
It was vital to win, and we fought hard in the second half but unfortunately Fernandes scored to claim a draw. Benfica are dangerous especially on the counterattack and they defended very well. They wanted the three points as much as we did.

Ronald Koeman, Benfica coach
To get points away from home is always good. We controlled the match from the beginning and performed more aggressively in the second half. This draw and Manchester United [FC]'s draw balances everything. It's still all very tight, as even after tonight's games United are still not assured of qualification, and [LOSC] Lille [Métropole] are still not out of it. There are nine points to play for and everyone has a chance of making it through to the next round. If we win our next match it will be very good, and we can win it. I wasn't reluctant to field our second goalkeeper [Nereu]. It was a tough debut for him, but he must have faith in himself, and that's what he showed. We deserved at least to draw the match.

José María Romero, Villarreal striker
Our idea was to win tonight, but obviously Manchester United and Benfica are favourites now. We'll have to swim out of this as best we can.