Baiano inspires Celta celebrations
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Article summary
RC Celta de Vigo were today breathing a sigh of relief after reaching the last 32 of the UEFA Cup, thanks in no small part to the efforts of striker Baiano.
Article body
RC Celta de Vigo were today breathing a sigh of relief after holding on for the draw they needed against US Città di Palermo to reach the last 32 of the UEFA Cup.
Palermo out
Celta striker Baiano was the hero for the visitors last night, opening the scoring with a deft finish on 59 minutes before Giovanni Tedesco ensured a tense finale with an equaliser for Palermo in the 70th minute. However, Celta managed hold on to the 1-1 draw to secure second place in Group H behind Newcastle United FC, eliminating Palermo in the process.
Optimistic
The runners-up position means Celta must next face strong opposition when the UEFA Cup resumes in February as they will play one of the eight teams moving across from the UEFA Champions League. However, coach Fernando Vázquez remained optimistic, saying: "We are very happy and can now dream of going far in the competition."
'Important goal'
Baiano, who has also hit seven goals in 14 league games, played down his individual contribution, simply stating that his opener was "an important goal because it allowed us to go through to the next round". He added: "I want to grow and make history with this club. I'm happy and I'm trying to play as best as I can." If he continues to do just that, Celta could well surpass the achievement of the 2003/04 season when they reached the UEFA Champions League first knockout round.
