AN Brescia attacker Filippo Ferrero believes his side can continue to surprise in the Champions League after an impressive start to the new season.
Speaking to OA Sport’s Waterpolo Preview programme, Ferrero reflected on Brescia’s successful Champions League qualification campaign and looked ahead to a demanding group featuring Pro Recco and Radnicki.
Brescia came through the preliminary round in Tbilisi despite facing uncertainty over several of their opponents and entering the competition with a significantly changed squad.
Ferrero said there was plenty of pride within the team after progressing, particularly given that Brescia were not widely expected to come through the group.
The Italian international pointed to Brescia’s aggression, intensity and physical condition as important factors in their performances, saying the team appeared to have more energy than their opponents late in games.
Their reward is a place in a heavyweight Champions League group alongside fellow Italian giants Pro Recco and Serbian champions Radnicki.
Rather than being concerned by the draw, Ferrero said he was pleased with the opportunity to test Brescia against two of Europe’s strongest sides.
“I am happy that we drew Recco because it is always an opportunity to compete against a team of the highest level,” Ferrero told OA Sport.
“Radnicki also have several Olympic champions, so it will be an opportunity to grow.”
Ferrero added that he hopes the meetings with Pro Recco will provide entertaining games for Italian supporters, while stressing that Brescia are approaching the competition without placing limits on what they can achieve.
“I am convinced that we can still surprise and amaze,” he said.
The 24-year-old also highlighted the long-term direction of Brescia’s rebuilt squad, with the club bringing younger players into the group during the summer.
Ferrero said there remains significant room for improvement as the new-look team develops its understanding and becomes more familiar with Brescia’s systems.
His positive start to the club season follows a successful summer with Italy, where Ferrero was part of the team that won gold at the Mediterranean Games in Taranto.
Italy faced strong opposition including Serbia and Montenegro, and Ferrero described the tournament as an important test for the group ahead of future international competitions.
He said the victory provided a valuable confidence boost while also praising the atmosphere in Taranto, where large crowds attended the water polo competition.
Ferrero warned against placing too much significance on the result, however, insisting the tournament should primarily serve as a platform for Italy’s future development.
Brescia will now turn their attention towards a Champions League campaign in which Ferrero believes the Italian side have an opportunity to continue exceeding expectations.
Quotes and interview details via OA Sport’s Waterpolo Preview, conducted by Andrea Addezio.
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