Post-match, Maresca admitted: 'We're not happy with the defeat, but we're in the semis. We tried to manage the result in the first leg, rotate players, and avoid injuries. We're here, and that's what matters.'

He also revealed that he was hoping to see goals from Cole Palmer and Nico Jackson, who both played 45 minutes each. 'We wanted to build their physical condition, and if they scored, it would have been great. We'll keep working on it.'

Maresca also addressed the lack of goals from his attacking players, saying: 'We need them to start scoring. Cucu is scoring, but he's not the main goal-scorer. We need Nico and Cole to kickstart their goal-scoring form.'

Finally, Maresca urged calm and focused on the bigger picture, saying: 'Tonight was a setback, but we're in the semis. Sunday's game is a final for us. We need to manage our emotions and keep pushing forward.'