RAKITIĆ, BONO AND DIEGO CARLOS ALL STARRED IN THE VICTORY OVER ZAGREB

Three of our top performers on the night against Dinamo had a few words to say after the game. First to share his thoughts was Diego Carlos, who praised the team's continued ability to grow: "It was a game with everything. We were concentrated and competed well. We are improving more and more, seeing more of the ball and creating more chances in front of goal. That's how we got those three goals. That's what is important for everyone. Now it's time to recover, we have an important game ahead and then we will think about the return leg." Carlos went on to reassure the fans after the injury mishap near the final whistle: "It was a bit of a scare. I felt my leg a bit on a set piece, but nothing serious." Carlos also spoke of his teammates' attacking threat on show: "We are always looking to create chances to shoot and today that's what we did well. Our heads were in the game and we showed our opponents respect. We are really happy for the fans." 

Next up to speak was Ivan Rakitić, who thanked the fans for their support: "We have to thank the fans because it was incredible to once again be able to enjoy a night like this with such an atmosphere. The team responded to this with a great performance against a strong side and we are happy knowing that. A big performance was needed and I think the victory was a deserved one." Rakitić also spoke about Bono and Navas: "We know how important our goalkeepers are and we have to thank Bono. I have to mention Jesús as well, he has fought to get back and for him to feel this admiration, it felt great for all of us as well. Hopefully soon he will find his rhythm and get some confidence back because he knows how important he is for us." Lastly, Ivan commented on the penalty and the slip up in Pamplona: "Livakovic knows me very well because we spent many years together in the national team. But, I have a lot of confidence and I didn't doubt myself. I have put my demons to bed now after the miss the other week and the goalkeeper made a good save. I am thankful to my teammates for having the confidence in me and it was important to open the scoring in such a big game." 

Last to speak was Bono: "Every game in Europe is complicated. They're competitive, but we knew how to handle it well and when they pinned us back, we knew how to hold up. By the end we had control of the ball and we were able to play our game in what was a great performance from the team. Dinamo is a good team with good players and who applied us with some pressure. It is never easy and now it's time to focus ourselves on Sunday and then get back to thinking about the second leg in Croatia." Bono had time discuss his double save with some modesty: "I always say that us 'keepers try to do our job the best we can. It's good when you are able to give a helping hand to the team. If not, then it means we have to stay focused."