Richard Ledezma and Noa Lang both played a great match against FC Twente. For 'Richie' it was an even more special match, he heard this week that his grandfather is ill. He dedicates his goal to him.
Richy Ledezma
What did you expect from the competition?
"We won 6-1, we certainly didn't expect that. We played really great, so we can be proud of that. But now the sights must return to Tuesday, because the next strong opponent awaits."
Your first goal this season. It was a nice one, right?
"Yes, but also a special one. My grandfather was told this week that he has a form of cancer, so it was really a special moment. He is very important to me, so it was nice to score. I definitely dedicate this goal to him."
What did you think of your fellow Americans?
"They played very well, as did the rest of the team. It was really a team performance. Of course, it's nice that all three of us scored, which is great for the United States."
And a nice assist from Noa Lang. Did you thank him?
"Oh, seriously? I actually didn't realize who I got the ball from. I'll get to that in a minute, haha!"
What is it like to play as a right back?
"The coach gives me a lot of confidence. If he thinks I can do it, I go for it. It's not a problem for me."
Noa Lang
A goal, two assists, and perhaps the man of the match?
"No, that was Isi [Saibari]. He got two goals and two assists. He deserves it."
What were you thinking with that heel?
"I always find questions like that difficult, because it's hard to describe something like that. It's too quick to think about. You just sense the situation. I saw Ismael go, and then that just comes to mind."
And you had another nice assist on Ledezma, only he didn't know it came from you.
"Seriously? Unprecedented! No, I'm glad he made it. For a moment I thought he was going to hit a cross, but I heartily credit him with this goal."
Who else can stop you?
"In the Netherlands? Nobody. We play against a good team and win 6-1. Then you're just much better. Or yes, actually Ajax did stop us. That still doesn't sit well with us, really with no one in the group. We just didn't play well then either."
With this big win, you're probably full of confidence, right?
"Seriously, are you asking me that question?" (laughs).