Shakhtar Donetsk coach Luis Castro spoke to gathered reporters in a press conference yesterday, discussing his side’s Europa League semi-final clash against Inter this evening. His words were noted by Italian media outlet FcInterNews.

First, he discussed how he is feeling ahead of this evening’s game.

“I’m calm, we’ve prepared a lot to make it through this semifinal. We know it will be difficult but I think it will be difficult for Inter as well. We’re very serious about preparing for the match, as we always have been. Conte has an exceptional way of preparing for the game, especially in the way he transitions from defense to attack. Peace of mind, however, is in our DNA, that’s why we got to this game like this. It’s security, awareness within ourselves that is a fundamental component of our team. We have to prove it on the field, but I’m sure we’ll do our best.”

The 58-year-old Portuguese coach commented on how small details will ultimately make the difference in tonight’s match, due to the DNA’s of the teams.

“Yes that’s true, but it’s something that concerns not only us two, every team doesn’t deviate from their playing DNA. Every football coach understands the type of game a team is playing. Then everyone tries to surprise the opponent with certain ideas, although I think that’s impossible now. I think you can still do something different in creativity or in the way you stop the counterattacks. But we’ve studied each other, you’re right.”

He touched on how his scruffy facial hair didn’t have a deeper meaning.

“Absolutely not, I forgot my razor in Ukraine. I didn’t shave very well, I’ll do it next time.”

Finally, he revealed that Roma coach Paulo Fonseca didn’t give him any advice for the game, considering the Giallorossi’s strong performance against the Nerazzurri.

“No, no advice. We haven’t talked about it.”

This evening’s game is one of the most important games of the season for both the Inter squad and coach Antonio Conte, who will meet with the Nerazzurri’s management at the conclusion of this Europa League campaign in order to discuss transfer market objectives and his future.