Gazzaev grateful for goal buffer

PFC CSKA Moskva advanced to the their first-ever European semi-final despite losing 2-0 in the second leg of their UEFA Cup last-eight tie at AJ Auxerre. With a seemingly impossible 4-0 first-leg deficit to overcome, Yann Lachuer got the French side off to a great start on nine minutes but by the time Bonaventure Kalou had halved the arrears, there were only 12 minutes of the match remaining. CSKA defended deeply throughout, and could not offer an attacking force as an early tactical double substitution and injury to Vágner Love deprived them of an orthodox striker. CSKA coach Valeriy Gazzaev was left to rue his early changes but was satisfied with his side's performance, while his opposite number, Guy Roux applauded his side's competitive attitude.

Guy Roux, Auxerre coach
Obviously I'm disappointed but at the same time I'm happy that my players performed well for the 12,600 supporters gathered here tonight. We produced a good game, especially the way we battled throughout. Russian teams have a culture and love of football we don't have in France though - they always prove more rigorous and very sensible on the field. We started slowly in Europe this season and developed progressively with the tie against [AFC] Ajax proving the high point [a 3-2 aggregate win in the Round of 32].

Valeriy Gazzaev, CSKA coach
I'm satisfied with my team for the way they defended to secure qualification. We had a tough night, especially after Vágner Love's injury. Auxerre and their fans managed to put some good pressure on our shoulders and I even felt worried after the second goal. In hindsight I shouldn't have made such an early double substitution because after Vágner Love was forced off, I was left with no striker.